Quick Facts: North Dakota Measure 2
Quick Facts:
School meals at no cost to families.
Measure 2 is on North Dakota’s November 3, 2026 ballot. A YES vote supports providing one breakfast and one lunch each school day at no cost to students or their families.
What does Measure 2 do?
Measure 2 would ensure every student in North Dakota would have access to one breakfast and one lunch every school day, at no cost to students, their parents, or guardians.
Which schools are included?
All North Dakota public schools, including public charter schools, would participate. Private schools, Bureau of Indian Education schools, and other tribal schools could choose to participate.
Who would qualify?
All enrolled students at participating schools, regardless of family income.
How much will this program cost?
The estimated cost of the program is approximately $62 million annually. Schools will also maximize federal reimbursements by participating in all applicable programs and encouraging families to apply for free or reduced-price meals, helping offset state costs.
How would the meals be paid for?
Schools would use available federal funding first. The state would reimburse eligible schools at the rates specified in the measure, adjusted annually for inflation.
The Legislature could identify another funding source. Otherwise, the measure requires funding from the Legacy earnings fund.
When would meals begin?
If approved, the school meals requirement would begin with the 2027–28 school year.
Why is Measure 2 on the ballot?
North Dakotans gathered enough valid petition signatures to put school meals before voters. Measure 2 gives voters the opportunity to decide directly whether to guarantee school meals at no cost to families.
What does a YES vote mean?
A YES vote on Measure 2 supports the constitutional amendment to provide school breakfast and lunch at no cost to families.
Vote YES on Measure 2 on November 3, 2026.
Read the official information
Updated October 8, 2026.