AN ACT CONCERNING FUNDING FOR SCHOOL MEALS.

HB 5845 appropriates state funds to reimburse school districts for the difference between federal reimbursement rates and the actual cost of providing reduced-price lunches and free breakfasts. It directly affects school districts participating in federal meal programs, covering costs for breakfasts served at no charge to all students and lunches at no charge to students eligible for reduced-price meals. The bill provides $____ from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026 to cover this cost gap, ensuring schools aren’t financially burdened by federal reimbursement shortfalls. This is a concrete policy change to maintain meal program access without altering eligibility rules.