Bismarck, ND – The Together for School Meals Coalition expresses deep disappointment following the defeat of HB 1475, a bill that would have provided free school meals to every child in North Dakota. The bill, which garnered overwhelming public support, would have directly addressed the critical issue of child hunger and food insecurity in the state. Despite strong grassroots mobilization and significant support from North Dakota families, educators, and advocates, the legislature voted to defeat the bill, leaving the needs of thousands of children unmet.

Together for School Meals is a coalition of over 75 local food security organizations, school nutrition professionals, registered dietitians, educational leaders, and advocacy organizations united with a shared purpose: ensuring that every child in North Dakota has access to healthy, nutritious meals at school. 

Statements from Together for School Meals:

“The North Dakota Legislature’s decision to reject HB 1475 is a blow to families across our state. This bill had the power to ensure that no child goes hungry at school while putting real money—an estimated $850 per child per year—back into the pockets of hardworking parents. For working families already stretched thin, this is a tangible economic benefit that could help cover other essential expenses like rent, gas, or childcare. By voting this bill down, lawmakers have missed a critical opportunity to invest in our future.”

“The legislature’s failure to pass HB 1475 flies in the face of this clear public mandate. When 8 out of 10 North Dakotans agree that no child should go hungry at school, it’s incomprehensible that our elected officials would ignore this widespread support.”

“While the defeat of HB 1475 is a setback, the Together for School Meals coalition remains committed to finding other solutions to address food insecurity and provide free school meals for all students. We strongly encourage the legislature to continue seeking avenues to ensure every child in North Dakota has access to free breakfast and lunch at school”.