Millions of children could lose free school meals this fall, experts say

The tax-and-spending law known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" could result in millions of U.S. children losing access to free school meals in the upcoming academic year, according to food and policy experts. This is due to changes made to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, through the OBBBA.

Estimates suggest that 4.5 million people, including 1.5 million children, have lost SNAP benefits since the law's enactment. Two factors contribute to this loss: children in households on SNAP automatically qualify for free meals, so losing SNAP ends their eligibility; additionally, fewer SNAP recipients can disqualify schools from the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), a program that allows high-poverty schools to provide free meals to all students without individual applications.

Approximately 18.3 million students nationwide could lose free school meals due to these changes, potentially costing a typical family with two children about $2,200 in food expenses. Miami-Dade School District in Florida has already reduced its free meal program due to many schools no longer qualifying for CEP. The district will provide free lunches for 30 days, after which they will cost $4.20 per child.

Experts warn that the lack of free meals could lead to financial strain for families, especially in low-income households where parents work multiple jobs. The School Nutrition Association advocates for free meals for all, as many children and families fall through the cracks of the individual application process. Food prices are currently 21% higher than in January 2022, and states may withdraw from SNAP due to increased costs.

The educational impact of this loss is also a concern, as research shows a link between free meal programs and improved learning outcomes.