The 2021 - 2022 California State Budget was enacted on June 28, 2021. The budget includes several investments to support increased nutrition and food access. Read about the highlights below.
Universal School Nutrition: A one time invest of my $54 million Prop. 98 funds to reimburse school meals for students that don't typically qualify for free-reduced lunch. Starting in academic year 2022 - 2023, all schools will be required to offer two free meals to any child requesting it, regardless of income eligibility. The state will budget about $650 million annually in Prop. 68 funds, to cover any costs not reimbursed/covered with federal dollars. (FRAC recently released a report highlighting the importance of a healthy school meals for all policy.)
California Food Assistance Program (CFAP) Expansion: Allocation of $5 million general funds to provide extend assistance to individuals regardless of immigration status.
CalFresh County Administration Simplification: One time $33.6 million General Fund allocation for county simplification.
Child and Adult Care Food Program: Provides $15 million to restore state reimbursement match for meal programs.
Food Bank Resources: Provides $110 million in general funds for food banks to meet current pandemic demands. The budget also provides $182 million for Food Bank Capacity Enhancement and Climate Resilience.