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HB 97

Require public schools to provide meals and related services

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Munira Abdullahi and 15 co-sponsors

Ohio bill mandates public schools provide student meals and related services, pending committee review with funding mechanisms and service scope still undefined.

Referred to committee
#education #primaryandsecondaryeducation
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Bill Summary · HB 97

Legislative bill overview

HB 97 would require Ohio public schools to provide meals and related services to students. The bill was introduced in February 2025 and is currently in committee review. The specific scope of "related services" and funding mechanisms have not been detailed in available legislative materials.

Why is this important

School meal programs directly affect student nutrition, academic performance, and food security for families experiencing economic hardship. An estimated 1 in 5 Ohio children face food insecurity, making guaranteed meal access a substantive policy matter with health and educational equity implications.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source unclear: The bill does not specify whether meals would be funded through state appropriations, federal programs, local districts, or a combination—creating uncertainty about implementation costs and local budget impact
  • "Related services" undefined: The vague language around ancillary services could expand obligations beyond meal provision in ways not yet specified
  • Unfunded mandate concerns: School districts may argue the requirement creates budgetary burden without corresponding state/federal funding, particularly for rural or under-resourced districts

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

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