Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders formally signed SB59 into law in a historic action meant to assist families all around Arkansas, guaranteeing that every youngster in the state would get free breakfast before their school day starts. Widely supported in the House and the Senate, the measure fills a vital need for many children who go without food prior to their first class starts.
The new law guarantees a free breakfast for every student, regardless of whether they qualify for free or reduced-price meals under federal guidelines. It aims to ease the financial strain on families, ensuring that all children can start their school day with the nutrition they need to focus and learn. The legislation’s lead sponsors, Senator Jonathan Dismang and Representative Zach Gramlich, both expressed their pride in the bipartisan effort that led to the law’s passage.
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“This bill will help alleviate some of the burdens families face trying to put food on the table,” Governor Sanders said at the signing ceremony. “When our children are hungry, they are not able to learn effectively. This is a simple yet powerful way to ensure that every child starts the school day prepared and ready to succeed.”
Senator Dismang, who represents District 18, highlighted the far-reaching benefits of the bill. “By providing every child with a nutritious breakfast, we are giving them the tools they need to thrive, regardless of their family background or income. Education is about equity, and this step ensures that all students have the same opportunity to reach their full potential,” he said.
For Representative Gramlich, a middle school teacher from District 50, the law hits close to home. “As a teacher, I see the difference that hunger makes in the classroom,” Gramlich explained. “When a student is hungry, they can’t focus, they can’t participate, and they certainly can’t excel. Providing a healthy breakfast for every student sets them up for success and helps them get the most out of their education.”
One of the key features of the bill is how it will be funded. SB59 repurposes revenue from the state’s medical marijuana tax to support both the Summer EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) program and the free breakfast and lunch initiatives. This innovative use of funds will ensure that the programs remain fully funded for years to come, offering long-term support for Arkansas students.
Governor Sanders has also committed to continuing the state’s Summer EBT program, which last year provided food assistance to nearly a quarter of a million children. The Summer EBT program is aimed at helping students who rely on school meals during the academic year but may struggle with food insecurity during the summer months. The continuation of this program is expected to have a significant impact on addressing hunger during the long break from school.
The signing of SB59 is just one of several steps Governor Sanders has taken to address food insecurity among students. Earlier in the year, she signed legislation to provide free school lunches to students who previously qualified for reduced-price meals, further cementing her commitment to ensuring that no child goes hungry in Arkansas schools.
With the passage of this bill, Arkansas joins a growing number of states that are taking action to support students’ health and well-being through free meal programs. As the state looks ahead, the hope is that the law will not only improve academic outcomes but also strengthen the overall quality of life for students and their families.
In addition to the immediate benefits for students, the bill represents a strong message about the power of bipartisan cooperation. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle came together to support the measure, recognizing that investing in the health of Arkansas’ children is an investment in the state’s future.
For families, teachers, and advocates for children’s well-being, the signing of SB59 is a step in the right direction toward a healthier, more equitable future for all Arkansas students.
