DELAWARE- About half of the state's school districts charge for school lunch, but some lawmakers are hoping to change that.
There has been a growing focus on who should foot the bill for students' meals in Delaware school cafeterias. Six democratic legislators are advocating for a bill that would provide free breakfast and lunch for all.
Many parents WBOC spoke with on Thursday supported the idea.
"It's a worthwhile investment because if kids don't have somewhere to eat what are they going to do?" George Johnson asked. "They are going to act out and not want to listen."
"There are food banks all over the place and they are giving out free food that way," Josette Cooper added. "Why can't they give it to the schools as well for our children?"
Rodney Poindexter said it is "definitely something [the state] should put into effect."
However, Delaware's Department of Education is not as eager about the initiative.
In a statement, the department said it "appreciates the intent of the legislation, but realizes the potential for a significant fiscal note."
According to the fiscal note on House Bill 125, free meals for all public schools would cost the state more than $3 million per year.
Some, like Penny Carroll said the expected price tag is not worth it.
"There are families that can afford lunches for their children and the ones that can't, normally are getting state help with things like EBT," Carroll said. "I just think it is an unnecessary cost for taxpayers."
Currently, only districts with a certain number of low-income households qualify for universal free meals. Although all Delaware families have the option to apply for reduced price lunch through their district.
State lawmakers are expected to tackle the free schools meals debate when they reconvene in January.
