Washington D.C. -  U.S. Representatives Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) and Christopher Shays (CT-04) today introduced the School Nutrition Enhancement Act, which would provide free school meals to more American students.

 

“Lunch is a necessary part of the school day for millions of American children, but they do not get the nutrition they need to focus for the afternoon.  With the bounty of food we have in America, there is no reason for a child to be hungry at lunchtime in school.  This legislation expands an essential program and brings more students to the lunch table,” Emerson said.

 

The School Nutrition Enhancement Act increases the number of children eligible to receive free school meals by raising the minimum income requirement to participate in the school lunch program.  Children who previously received lunches at lower prices would receive the food free. 

 

“Children cannot learn on an empty stomach. We need to ensure all children who can’t afford lunches have guaranteed access to free meals.  Child hunger is a serious and easily preventable barrier to success in schools.  The bottom line is that reducing school hunger will increase academic performance,” Shays said.

 

Under the legislation, reduced-priced lunches would be phased out over five years, eventually providing students between 130 percent and 185 percent of poverty schools meals without charge.

 

Emerson and Shays’ bill is supported by more than 300 organizations, including the National PTA, the National Association of Elementary School Principals, and hundreds of Boards of Education and School Districts across the country.

 

The School Nutrition Enhancement Act is the companion bill to S. 1549, introduced by Senators Elizabeth Dole (R-NC) and Pat Roberts (R-KS) on July 21, 2003.