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Appropriations committee rejects proposal to eliminate reduced‑price lunch copay, 7–14
Summary
Representative Ballard’s $2.5 million amendment to waive the 70¢ reduced‑price school lunch copay was defeated after extensive debate over fraud, eligibility and program implementation. Supporters said the change would reduce stigma and feed thousands; opponents warned of administrative consequences and potential misuse.
A proposal to eliminate the 70¢ daily copay for reduced‑price school lunches failed in the Appropriations Committee on Feb. 14 by a recorded vote of 7–14.
Representative Ballard said the $2.5 million amendment would "save these families $132.2 per kid" (as calculated during debate) and argued removing the copay would reduce stigma so children would not be singled out. "Children should not have to suffer for whatever the status their parents are," Ballard said, urging immediate relief for families he described as vulnerable.
Opponents challenged the amendment on…
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