Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act of 2026

# Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act of 2026 (HR 7259) **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would modify federal school meal programs to make children of military families automatically eligible for free or reduced-price school meals. Currently, military families must apply for meal assistance the same way as other families—by submitting income documentation and completing eligibility forms. This bill would streamline that process by allowing military-connected children to receive meals without going through the standard application process. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects school children whose parents are active-duty military members, military retirees, or veterans.

It could also impact school districts that administer federal meal programs, as they would need to update their eligibility verification systems to identify and enroll military families automatically. **Current Status** As of now, HR 7259 is in committee and has not advanced further in the legislative process. The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Mike Levin (D-CA). For the bill to become law, it would need to pass committee review, be approved by the full House, pass the Senate, and be signed by the President.