Arkansas Senate Votes to Provide Free Breakfast for All Public School Students

The Arkansas Senate has passed Senate Bill 59 (SB 59), ensuring that every public school student will receive a free breakfast each school day, starting in the 2025-2026 school year. This initiative, funded by medical marijuana tax revenue, addresses food insecurity in the state, which ranked as the hungriest in the nation in 2023 with nearly 19% of households facing food insecurity.

The bill, co-sponsored by 25 bipartisan senators, is designed to improve students’ academic performance and overall well-being. Studies show that students who eat breakfast perform better on standardized tests, particularly in subjects like mathematics, and experience fewer behavioral problems and absences.

State budget officials estimate the program will cost $14.7 million annually, a cost that is expected to be covered by marijuana tax revenue. Governor Sanders has publicly supported the bill, which is now headed to the House of Representatives with strong backing for passage.

In addition to SB 59, the Senate also passed SB 142, which restricts cell phone use during school hours, aiming to reduce distractions and improve students’ mental health. The bill is expected to benefit students’ focus and emotional well-being, with exemptions for students with individualized education programs (IEPs).

The expansion of child care services in Arkansas continues, with 2,600 additional children added to the state’s subsidized child care program, providing assistance to low-income families and helping prepare children for kindergarten.

This legislation highlights Arkansas’ commitment to supporting its students and families through proactive, bipartisan measures.