Protect the Most Vulnerable Kids by Passing the School MEALS Act

The School MEALS Act of 2023 aims to improve access to free and reduced-price school meals by expanding direct certification and the community eligibility provision. It provides $28 million in grants to help states and tribes improve direct certification rates, with priority for those with the lowest rates. This includes funding for technology upgrades, technical assistance, and coordinating with other programs. The bill also allows more flexibility in establishing community eligibility by using data from April 1st through the end of the school year, rather than just April 1st. Additionally, it increases the number of data sources for directly certifying students from 10 to 20. These measures will reduce administrative burden and increase program access for eligible low-income children. I urge support for this legislation to strengthen child nutrition programs and reduce child hunger.