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Kansas lawmakers have introduced Senate Bill 387, which would change how free school meal programs operate in Kansas. The bill would require school districts to verify the household income of most students who qualify for free meals under the National School Lunch Program. Schools would need to collect and keep written proof of a family’s earned income each year, instead of mainly relying on information families provide on applications. Students who are automatically eligible through federal programs would be exempt.

The bill also affects the federal Community Eligibility Provision, or CEP, which allows high-poverty schools to offer free meals to all students. Starting July 1, 2026, schools would need approval from the Kansas Legislature before applying for CEP funding. If lawmakers are not in session, districts could request approval from the Legislative Coordinating Council.

Supporters say the bill would improve transparency and oversight of federal meal funding. Critics warn it could increase paperwork for schools and make it harder for eligible students to access free meals. The bill is still under debate.