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HB 2365

$ISBE-HEALTHY SCHOOL MEALS

104th Regular Session Introduced by Dee Avelar and 9 co-sponsors

Illinois bill requiring state-funded universal free meals for all public school students to improve nutrition access and academic outcomes regardless of family income.

Rule 19(b) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2365

Legislative bill overview

HB 2365 directs the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to establish and fund a program ensuring nutritious, free meals for all students in Illinois public schools. The bill appears designed to expand meal access beyond current federal and state programs by guaranteeing universal free breakfast and lunch regardless of family income.

Why is this important

Food insecurity affects student academic performance, attendance, and health outcomes. Currently, federal programs only reach families below certain income thresholds, leaving some students without reliable meal access. Universal free meals would eliminate stigma associated with reduced-price or free meal applications and ensure consistent nutrition for all K-12 students.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: The bill requires state funding but doesn't specify budget amounts or revenue mechanisms, raising questions about fiscal feasibility during tight state budgets
  • Implementation burden: Schools would need to manage expanded meal operations, kitchen capacity, and staffing, with unclear support for infrastructure improvements
  • Federal program interaction: Unclear how universal state meals coordinate with existing USDA National School Lunch Program reimbursements and whether schools could double-fund meals

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

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