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HB 774

Higher Education - Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program - Alterations

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Debra Davis

Maryland's Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program provides state funding to public colleges and universities to reduce student food insecurity through meal assistance and nutrition resources.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 323
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Bill Summary · HB 774

Legislative bill overview

HB 774 establishes and modifies Maryland's Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to public universities and community colleges to address food insecurity among students. The bill allocates state funding to help institutions implement food assistance initiatives, emergency aid programs, and nutrition resources on campus.

Why is this important

Student food insecurity is a documented barrier to academic success, retention, and degree completion, with studies showing 20-40% of college students experience hunger. By formalizing state support for campus food programs, Maryland aims to reduce this obstacle and improve educational outcomes while addressing a basic human need among its student population.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding allocation and sustainability: Unclear whether grant amounts are sufficient to meet demand across all institutions or if funding levels are guaranteed long-term versus subject to annual appropriations
  • Definition and measurement standards: Questions about what qualifies for grant funding and how institutions measure effectiveness and food insecurity reduction
  • Equity across institution types: Potential disparities in how funding is distributed between larger universities and smaller community colleges, affecting program accessibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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