Velázquez Leads Opposition to Proposed Cuts to School Meal Programs

WASHINGTON— Today, Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) led Democratic colleagues in a letter to GOP committee leaders opposing proposed changes in the upcoming Republican reconciliation package that would restrict access to the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP).
 
“Providing students with breakfast and lunch at school from pre-kindergarten to twelfth grade not only aids physical growth, long-term health, and development, but it also supports academic success in the classroom,” wrote the lawmakers. “According to the Food Research & Action Center, the positive impact of free school meals is well-known and measurable, as studies have shown increased attendance, better test scores, and decreased disciplinary infractions.”
 
Both programs serve as a lifeline for students who do not have access to a reliable and nutritious breakfast or lunch daily by offering nutritionally balanced, low-cost, or free breakfasts and lunches to children each school day.
 
The proposed changes would require additional household income documentation for free or reduced-price meal eligibility, creating barriers that could prevent many qualifying children from receiving essential meals. Additionally, the proposal would tighten requirements for schools to qualify for the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which enables high-poverty schools to provide free meals to all students. If enacted, these changes could impact nearly 2.9 million children across New York, Texas, and Florida alone.
 
The lawmakers warn that these restrictions would not only burden schools but also jeopardize the health and academic success of millions of children who depend on these programs. Research consistently shows that access to free and reduced-price meals leads to improved attendance, test scores, and overall student well-being.
 
“As Members of Congress representing children from all backgrounds, we strongly urge you to let the National School Lunch Program, and School Breakfast Program remain intact instead of considering policies that will make them more restrictive and harmful to many communities,” continued the lawmakers. “Ensuring that all children, regardless of their economic circumstances, have reliable access to nutritious meals is an investment in their health, education, and future success.”
 
In addition to Rep. Velázquez, the letter was signed by Reps. Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), and Jill Tokuda (D-HI).
 
For a full copy of the letter, click here.
 

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