Bill · H.R. 8798· House(119-HR-8798)

Universal School Meals Program Act of 2026

Age: 44 years

Minnesota

Introduced: 5/13/2026
Last activity: 5/13/2026 — Referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce, and in addition to the Committees on Agriculture, and Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Sponsored by: Ilhan Omar
Cosponsors: - 103 - 0

Agriculture and Food

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

The Universal School Meals Program Act of 2026 aims to amend existing laws to provide free breakfasts and lunches to all children in participating schools. It updates the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 and the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to remove previous eligibility requirements. The bill establishes specific national average payments for these meals, which are adjusted annually for inflation. It also prohibits schools from collecting debt for unpaid meals and prevents breakfast shaming or the physical segregation of students. Additionally, the legislation covers various summer food programs and afterschool care.

Yes· 3 of 7

Would children be better off under this?+10
The bill provides universal free breakfast and lunch to all school children.
Would students be better off under this?+10
Ensures all students have access to free, nutritious meals without stigma or debt.
Would households on low incomes be better off under this?+9
Provides essential nutrition and eliminates meal debt for low-income families.