Tennessee bill would feed students even if they can't pay for lunch

Lawmakers in Tennessee are trying to help out students who can't afford a school lunch, allowing them to eat even if they can't pay.

The bill, called Tennessee Hunger-Free Students Act, introduced by Rep. John Clemmons (D-TN) would make sure that any student on free or reduced lunch would be given their meal for free, whether they are able to pay or not. It also wants to ensure that there is no punishment imposed on students who can't pay or who have an outstanding balance.

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The bill states that a reimbursable meal will be provided to a student who requests one. Schools will also not direct a student to throw away a meal after it has been served because of a student's inability to pay.

The measure will be voted on this month. If it passes, the new bill will take affect during the next school year.