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.
Albuquerque Public Schools addressing HVAC concerns ahead of school year
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.
The report also says some schools are having trouble meeting quality standards. “We find that charter schools and smaller districts in particular have faced challenges with food program costs, kitchen infrastructure, staffing limited access to food vendors,” said Tolman. Recommendations include setting up a statewide tracking system for meal quality and food waste.
Senator Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, who supports the program, made a comment of wanting to see it progress. “Please be as proactive as humanly possible because we want to make sure this does not slow down. We’ve made this decision to do it,” said Padilla.
The Legislative Finance Committee is expected to review formal recommendations later this year, including proposals for new accountability systems for schools and upgrades to school kitchen facilities.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
