A proposed bill in the Alaska Legislature could provide free breakfast and lunch to all students statewide, regardless of income. Democratic Representative Maxine Dibert of Fairbanks introduced House Bill 12, seeking state funding to ensure that Alaska’s free school meal program goes through.
Representative Dibert, a former teacher, highlighted the benefits of free universal meals available through federal relief funds during the COVID-19 pandemic. She stated, “I’ve seen the effects of feeding our kids, and especially during COVID when all kids got lunches and breakfast at no cost.”
Federal waivers expired in 2022, creating gaps in meal funding for districts nationwide. Currently, 51% of Alaska’s students qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Representative Dibert revealed she often paid out of pocket for her students’ lunches.
Dibert also connected the legislation to the ongoing Yukon River salmon crisis, which has affected families’ food security. Research shows universal free meals improve academic performance, attendance, and student health.
The bill also emphasizes incorporating local foods like salmon and moose into school menus. Alaska’s free school meal program would adjust regional funding to address rural Alaska’s high grocery prices. Dibert suggested contributions from federal and municipal sources could help support the initiative. Last year, lawmakers rejected a $480,000 measure to fund reduced-price lunches for low-income rents.
This news article was originally published by Alaska Beacon.
