Peach Tree Times

State Representative Imani Barnes (D-Tucker) has introduced House Bill 60, referred to as the "Healthy Start Act." This bill aims to provide additional funding for healthy school lunches at no cost to students eligible for reduced-price meals under federal and state guidelines.

"Introducing House Bill 60, the Healthy Start Act, is a critical step toward ensuring that every student in our public schools has access to the nutritious meals they need to succeed academically," stated Rep. Barnes. "By providing funding to cover the cost of meals for eligible students, we are investing in the health and future of our children. I look forward to partnering with my colleagues to advance this meaningful legislation through the legislative process."

The proposed HB 60 would enable the State Board of Education to determine the necessary state funds required for a no-cost statewide school lunch program for qualifying students. The Fiscal Year 2025 budget allocates $6.3 million in state general funds, aiming to provide breakfast for 32,243 students and lunch for 63,792 students. This funding covers approximately 5,802,175 breakfasts and 11,482,652 lunches over the school year.

HB 60 is currently assigned to the House Education Committee.