Texas Senate Bill SB869

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to free breakfast for certain public school students.

Impact

Under SB869, any school campus where at least 60% of students qualify for free or reduced-price breakfasts will be required to provide free breakfast to elementary school students during school hours. This requirement is expected to increase participation in the breakfast program, thereby improving food security among vulnerable student populations. The act also includes provisions for the Texas Department of Agriculture to reimburse schools for any financial losses incurred from providing these free breakfasts.

Summary

SB869 is a legislative act aimed at enhancing the nutritional support available to public school students in Texas. The bill stipulates that school districts and open-enrollment charter schools with a significant number of students eligible for free or reduced-price breakfasts must participate in the national school breakfast program. This initiative is grounded in existing federal nutrition legislation, primarily the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, and seeks to ensure that students from lower-income families have access to essential meals during their school day.

Contention

While the bill is largely aimed at addressing child nutrition and welfare, it has stirred discussions about funding and resource allocation for schools. Critics may highlight concerns surrounding the potential strain on school budgets, especially for districts already facing financial challenges. Supporters, however, argue that the long-term benefits of improved student health and academic performance justify the initial costs, underscoring the bill’s focus on enhancing educational outcomes through better nutrition.