Bill would provide free school meals to all Rhode Island students

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A new proposal would guarantee free breakfast and lunch for every public school student in Rhode Island, regardless of income.

The legislation is sponsored by Jonathon Acosta and Enrique George Sanchez.

Plan would roll out in phases

The bill calls for a phased rollout of universal school meals:

• Elementary schools: 2027–2028 school year
• Middle schools: 2028–2029
• High schools: 2029–2030

Lawmakers say the goal is to ensure every student has access to meals throughout the school day.

Addressing hunger and learning

Supporters say the proposal is aimed at improving both academic performance and student wellbeing.

They argue that students are more likely to succeed when they are not distracted by hunger.

Rising costs for food, housing and utilities have also made it harder for some families to afford school meals, even if they don’t qualify for assistance.

Federal funding would offset costs

The legislation requires schools to participate in the federal Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which helps cover the cost of meals based on student need.

Lawmakers say maximizing federal reimbursement would significantly reduce the cost to the state.

The plan would also allow the state to temporarily cover costs for schools that don’t follow traditional grade structures during the transition.

Builds on pandemic-era program

Free meals were previously provided nationwide during the COVID-19 pandemic through federal funding.

Several states have since made similar programs permanent.

If approved, Rhode Island would join states like Massachusetts, Maine and Vermont in offering universal free school meals.

Broader impact on schools

Supporters say expanded funding could help schools improve meal quality, upgrade kitchen equipment and reduce administrative burdens tied to meal payments.

They also say it would help address food insecurity, which continues to affect many households across Rhode Island.