Support LB 14: Adopt the Hunger-Free Schools Act

Chairman Murman and members of the Education Committee:

My name is Garret Swanson, G-A-R-R-E-T S-W-A-N-S-O-N and I am here on behalf of the Holland Children’s Movement, a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that strives to fulfill its vision for Nebraska to become a beacon in economic security and opportunity for all children and families, in support of LB14.

What an amazing opportunity we have here Senators to do something truly revolutionary for the education system. So many of us here have had the experience growing up where during lunch we waited in line and filled up our tray with our classmates, only to get to the cashier at the end of line and see our PIN rejected for lack of funds. When that happened to me, my tray would be confiscated and dumped into the trash and I would be offered a bun with either a slice of cheese between it or peanut butter. Or if you’re really lucky, peanut butter and cheese. After a long day of school, then after-school sports, the bus ride home could be rough. Exhaustion from hunger brought on headaches, nausea, and moodiness. For me at that time, it wasn’t a lack of effort from my parents, who yes were responsible for me. It was the great recession, seemingly every family I knew at the time was experiencing job loss or trouble with their mortgage.

That’s why I sincerely thank Senator Michaela Cavanaugh for bringing this legislation forward to ensure no child has to experience hunger due to poverty. As a nation, we require every child to receive an education, due to that we have a responsibility to ensure that they are well cared for. Research, such as from the USDA’s Economic Research Service has shown that universal meal programs significantly reduce food insufficiency among children. A meta-analysis published by the National Library of Medicine in 2021 found that nearly all of the 47 studies examining universal free school meals found positive associations with school meal participation. Most studies examining universal free school meals that included free lunch found positive associations with diet quality, food security, and academic performance.

Now Senators, there is certainly a not-so-insignificant fiscal note attached to this bill. 90 million dollars when we are currently facing a budget deficit. The passage of this bill will require a wider conversation about our revenue and expenses and where our values lay. If we value making sure no child in Nebraska goes hungry, we can absolutely afford this. It may require delaying income tax cuts for high-income earners, it may mean closing sales tax loopholes or cutting redundant spending in another area. Whatever the solution, I have faith that this legislature will find a way to pass this if they value it enough.