Understanding the School Meal Debate in the North Dakota Special Session

There is significant discussion regarding school meal funding during this week’s special session in Bismarck. To help provide clarity for North Dakotans, here is an objective breakdown of the current programs, the bills debated today, and the legislative strategy involved.

Where do we stand right now?

Currently, school meals in North Dakota are funded by a combination of federal and state dollars with parents picking up the tab if federal or state dollars don’t cover it.

• Federal Funding: The USDA covers the cost of free and reduced-priced meals for students in lower-income brackets.
• State Expansion: North Dakota has expanded the Federal coverage. Currently, families earning up to 225% of the federal poverty level (approx. $72,338 for a family of four) receive free meals through state-funded subsidies that “fill the gap” left by federal limits.

What happened on the House floor today?

Two different approaches were considered today to further expand these benefits:

• HB 1624 (Passed): This is a “Universal Meals” bill. It would provide free breakfast and lunch to ALL K-12 students, regardless of household income. The estimated cost is $65 million for the next school year, likely funded by the Strategic Investment and Improvements Fund.
• HB 1627 (Failed): This was a “Targeted” bill. It would have expanded free meals only to families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level (approx. $96,638 for a family of four), keeping the program focused on a specific income-based need.

Why is this being decided in a Special Session?

The timing of this vote appears to be a strategic move:

A citizen-led coalition is currently gathering signatures for a ballot measure to mandate universal meals in the North Dakota Constitution.
By passing HB 1624 as a state law NOW, the Legislature keeps the authority to adjust the program’s rules or budget in future sessions. Versus if the ballot measure passes in November, the program becomes a constitutional mandate, which is significantly harder for lawmakers to modify or manage if state revenues change.

What is next?

With the House passing HB 1624, the bill now moves to the North Dakota Senate for consideration. YOU can let your voice be heard by contacting your Senator and sharing your thoughts.
Not sure who your Senator is? Find your district on the map linked below then check the list of Senators to find out who you should contact.

• Districts Map: https://ndlegis.gov/districts/2025-2032
• North Dakota Senators: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/members/senate