Rhode Island General Laws

R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-8-10 (2026)

Mandatory school lunch programs

✓ current as of July 2026

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All public elementary and secondary schools shall be required to make federally reimbursable lunches available to students attending those schools through the USDA’s National School Lunch Program (NSLP) in accordance with federal regulation as well as rules and regulations adopted from time to time by the department of elementary and secondary education. To the extent that federal, state, and other funds are available, free and reimbursable lunches shall be provided to all students from families that meet the current specific criteria established by federal and state regulations to qualify for free or reduced-price meals. The state of Rhode Island shall provide additional funds to public schools in an amount equal to the difference between the federal reimbursement rate for a free lunch and the federal reimbursement rate received for each student eligible for a reduced-price lunch and receiving lunch. The requirement that reimbursable lunches be provided shall apply to locally managed school lunch programs, and school lunch programs administered directly by the department of elementary and secondary education or by any other public agency whether using school facilities or a commercial catering service. The department of elementary and secondary education is further authorized to expand the school lunch program to the extent that federal, state, and/or local funds are available by the utilization of one or more food preparation centers for delivery to participating schools for the purpose of providing meals to students on a more economical basis than could be provided by a community acting individually.

Notes of Decisions

Cited in 2 cases, 1972–1997 · leading case: Davis v. Robinson, 346 F. Supp. 847 (D.R.I. 1972).

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Davis v. Robinson, 346 F. Supp. 847 (D.R.I. 1972). · cites it 6× “G.L. 16-8-10 and making the school lunch program largely mandatory in schools throughout the state.”

Rhode Island Council 94 v. Woonsocket Sch. Comm., 703 A.2d 756 (R.I. 1997). · cites it 3× “When Woonsocket decided to privatize its school-lunch program in 1993, as permitted by G.L.1956 § 16-8-10, it did so by subcontracting the work out to the Marriott Corporation (Marriott), including the three positions formerly filled by appointment by the local school committee.”

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