NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – More New Mexico students are eating school-provided lunches, but a new report highlights both the benefits and the rising costs of keeping the program running.
A recent evaluation takes a look at how New Mexico kids are using the state’s free lunch program. In 2023, the “Healthy Universal School Meals” law was passed requiring all public and charter schools in the state to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students regardless of income. After two years, the state says more kids are eating those free meals.
“Participation gains were greatest among less poor students who would not have previously qualified for free or reduced meals,” said Ryan Tolman, Legislative Finance Committee evaluator. Presenters found an increase in students eating those lunches, 10% in Albuquerque and a 14% increase in Rio Rancho.
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However, costs have increased to provide those meals; while the federal government reimburses some of those free meals, the state has to cover the rest. “The state is essentially paying for students who do not qualify for these free reduced reimbursement rates,” said Tolman…