119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 5128
The Feed Hungry Kids Act would lower the income threshold required for schools to provide free meals to all students in high-poverty areas. Currently, schools must have at least 40 percent of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals to offer universal meal service; this bill would reduce that threshold to 25 percent, making it easier for schools serving lower-income communities to qualify for the program. The change takes effect for the 2025-2026 school year and beyond. This legislation would expand access to free meals for students in more schools across the country, particularly benefiting children in moderate-to-high poverty areas. The bill was introduced in September 2025 and referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.