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Republicans back universal free school meals in principle but flag budget and special-education priorities
Summary
Senate and House Republican leaders said they support the idea of free breakfast and lunch for requesting students but noted budget constraints and emphasized prioritizing MSOC and special education; House Republicans said votes would split by district and said a fiscal note was missing from committee hearings.
Reporters asked whether the Republican caucuses would support SB 5352, a bill that would require all school districts, charter schools and state-tribal education compact schools to offer free breakfast and lunch to any requesting student.
Sen. John Braun said he has personally supported free school meals in the past but cautioned the caucus has not had a full discussion and that the state's budget constraints could require phasing in the policy. "The budget is an issue, and I think it's gonna be tough to do it in this year," he said.
Rep. Chris Corey said House Republicans have members on both sides of the issue and generally encourage members to "vote their districts and vote their conscience." Another member noted a fiscal note was not available at a recent committee hearing, complicating cost estimates.
Both leaders emphasized that lawmakers must prioritize constitutionally required K' 12 obligations first. Sen. Braun said MSOC (materials, supplies and operating costs) should come before a universal meal program and placed special education high on the priority list. The House Republicans said special education funding has been their top priority for years and that eliminating an artificial cap could ease downstream district costs.
No formal commitment or legislative text was adopted at the press availability; leaders said hearings and fiscal analyses will determine next steps.
