Study: Ohio Economists Agree Free School Meals Boost Economy – Here's Why" (148 characters) **More engaging version**: "New Findings: Free School

# **Universal School Meals in Ohio: A Smart Economic Move or Unnecessary Spending?**

Nearly two-thirds of Ohio economists believe that providing **universal free school meals** would deliver long-term economic benefits, according to a recent survey. The study, conducted by **Scioto Analysis**, highlights how this policy could improve childhood nutrition, academic performance, and workforce productivity while reducing healthcare costs.

But is Ohio ready to invest in a statewide free meal program? Let’s break down the key findings.

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## **Key Takeaways from the Survey**

### **1. Majority Support Among Economists**
- **64% of surveyed economists** agreed that universal school meals would "yield long-term economic benefits."
- Only **15% disagreed**, while **21% remained neutral**, signaling strong consensus among experts.

### **2. Long-Term Cost Savings**
- Early childhood nutrition programs have been shown to **reduce future healthcare expenses** and **boost lifetime earnings**.
- Improved academic performance leads to a **more skilled workforce**, benefiting Ohio’s economy.

### **3. Current Policy Leaves Gaps**
- Federal pandemic-era waivers **expired in 2022**, leaving many low-income families struggling.
- Some Ohio districts offer free meals, but coverage is **inconsistent** across the state.

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## **Arguments For and Against Universal School Meals**

### **✅ The Case For Universal Meals**
- **Reduces stigma** – Children won’t feel singled out for receiving free meals.
- **Improves attendance & performance** – Hungry students struggle to focus in class.
- **Saves administrative costs** – Schools spend time verifying eligibility; universal meals simplify the process.

### **❌ Potential Concerns**
- **Funding challenges** – Ohio would need state or federal dollars to cover costs.
- **Waste concerns** – Critics argue some families who can afford meals might take them unnecessarily.
- **Alternative solutions** – Some suggest better-targeted assistance instead of universal programs.

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## **What Do Other States Do?**
Several states, including **California, Maine, and Minnesota**, have adopted **universal free school meals** with positive results. Studies show:
- Increased **meal participation rates**
- Reduced **school lunch debt**
- Improved **student behavior and test scores**

Ohio could follow suit—but will policymakers see it as a priority?

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## **What Do You Think?**
- Should Ohio invest in **universal free school meals**, or is the cost too high?
- Would taxpayer dollars be better spent on **other education improvements**?
- Could this policy **reduce future welfare dependency**, or is that an overreach?
- Do you believe **all children should get free meals**, regardless of family income?

**Join the conversation below—what’s your take?**

*(Breaking Now News - BNN)*