Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed legislation (S.5151A/A.65277A) that prohibits schools and school districts from filing any type of lawsuit against parents or guardians for unpaid meal fees. The new law builds on measures from the Governor’s comprehensive “No Student Goes Hungry” program and helps protect students and families from legal tactics related to their inability to make payments for school meals.
“Taking families to court over unpaid school meals is cruel, draconian, and runs counter to a school’s fundamental mission to ensure the wellbeing of every student,” Governor Cuomo said. “This legislation builds upon this administration’s work to end lunch shaming in New York and makes it clear that no family in need should have to endure a burdensome and costly legal process over their children’s nutritional health.”
