Urges schools to implement share tables in order to reduce food waste and help alleviate food insecurity.

AR 81 is an Assembly Resolution (not a binding law) urging New Jersey public schools to implement "share tables" in cafeterias. These tables allow students to place unopened, unconsumed food for others to take or donate to food pantries, directly targeting school food waste and food insecurity. The resolution cites USDA data showing 21% of school lunch calories are wasted and notes 9% of New Jersey residents (including 10% of children) face food insecurity. It recommends schools adopt this low-cost, simple initiative to reduce waste, lower disposal costs, and increase food availability for pantries. The resolution has no enforcement power and will be shared with school districts via the Commissioner of Education.