A bill to reimburse South Dakota K‑12 schools for reduced‑price meals advanced Monday after the House Appropriations Committee approved HB 1082 on a 7–2 vote. The measure, estimated to cost $630,000 annually, now heads to the full House for debate.
The bill would use general‑fund dollars to cover the 30‑cent breakfast and 40‑cent lunch fees for students on reduced‑meal plans. Prime sponsor Rep. Kadyn Wittman argued schools should ensure students aren’t hungry, saying nutrition is essential for learning. The money could also help schools pay off lunch‑debt balances.
A family of four earning under $59,478 qualifies for reduced lunch. Opponent Rep. Al Novstrup said the bill doesn’t help low‑income families who don’t meet that threshold but still struggle to pay full meal prices.
HB 1082 has gained broader support this year from health, education, and economic groups. Wittman has introduced similar bills for four consecutive years, with previous efforts failing in committee. This year, several appropriators who opposed earlier versions switched to support the measure.
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