Bill 118 hr 10552, also known as the "School Meal Debt Cancellation Act," is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to address the issue of school meal debt in the United States. The bill would require the Secretary of Agriculture to cancel any existing school meal debt that has accrued in the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program.
The National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program are federal initiatives that provide nutritious meals to students in need. However, many schools across the country have struggled with accumulating debt from unpaid meal charges. This debt can create financial burdens for schools and families, and can even result in students being denied meals or receiving alternative, less nutritious options.
Under the provisions of the School Meal Debt Cancellation Act, the Secretary of Agriculture would be required to cancel any outstanding school meal debt, relieving schools and families of this financial burden. This would ensure that all students have access to healthy meals without the fear of being denied or receiving inadequate options due to unpaid charges.
Overall, the bill aims to promote food security and ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals while attending school. By canceling existing school meal debt, the legislation seeks to alleviate financial strain on schools and families, ultimately benefiting the well-being and academic success of students across the country.