SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – Yesterday, the House Education Finance Committee held a remote informational hearing to review a proposal that would give an extension to school districts during the current pandemic to collect forms from families for free and reduced lunch. Currently, the deadline is December 15. The proposed legislation would move it to January 4, 2021. A copy of the draft proposal can be found here.
“With distance and hybrid learning coupled with changes to school structures, it’s been more challenging to connect with families about eligibility for free and reduced-price lunches,” said Chair Davnie. “At the same time we know that the pandemic recession has hit many families hard.”
The committee heard supportive testimony from the Minnesota Department of Education, Minnesota Independent School Forum, Ed Allies, Hunger Solutions, Schools for Equity and Education, and the Minnesota School Board Association. All organizations stressed the urgency to act due to the challenges families are experiencing accessing and returning the application forms for free or reduced price lunch.
The bill is expected to be taken up on the House Floor during Monday’s special session. Supporting materials can be found on the committee’s website.