Texas House Bill HB296

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

• Filed: 12/17/12

Caption

Relating to breakfast for certain public school students.

Impact

One of the key elements of HB296 is the requirement for schools with a high percentage (80% or more) of students qualifying for free or reduced-price breakfasts to offer these students a free breakfast. This provision is aimed at reducing food insecurity among students and improving their ability to focus on education. The bill also includes a clause allowing for the waiver of the free breakfast requirement, but only if a district's governing body votes to request it during an annual meeting, ensuring community engagement in the decision-making process.

Summary

House Bill 296 proposes amendments to Section 33.901 of the Education Code to enhance the breakfast program for certain public school students in Texas. The bill mandates that if at least 10 percent of students in a school district or an open-enrollment charter school are eligible for free or reduced-price breakfasts under the national school breakfast program, the institution must participate in the program. This aims to ensure access to nutritious meals for students who qualify, promoting better health and educational outcomes.

Contention

While the bill is largely aimed at benefiting students, it has raised discussions regarding the financial implications for school districts. Critics may argue that the additional responsibility to provide a free breakfast could strain resources, especially for districts with tight budgets. Nonetheless, proponents believe that the long-term benefits of improved student health and educational performance will outweigh any immediate fiscal concerns. There are no changes to the eligibility requirements established by federal law, which maintains the bill's focus solely on local implementation of existing national standards.