Proposed Bill Would Allow Public Schools to End Free Lunches

A state Senate panel has approved a bill that would let schools opt out of the federal program that offers free and reduced price lunches for needy students.

The East Valley Tribune reports that Sen. Rich Crandall of Mesa believes that the decision of whether or not to participate should be left to local school officials. Crandall says some districts may decide to continue to offer the meals, but on their own terms. Other schools may drop the program entirely.

Arizona Education Association lobbyist Jennifer Loredo says that for a lot of Arizona students, the lunches are the only quality meals they get.

The Senate Education Committee approved the bill by a 6 to 1 vote. It now goes to the full Senate.