OKEMOS, Mich., Aug. 5, 2025 — This week, Okemos Public Schools announced it will no longer offer universal meals to students for the 2025-2026 school year. Last legislative session, Michigan Democrats secured funding for the school meal program; however, under current Republican leadership, the House has failed to pass a final state budget, leaving critical funding in limbo, including funding for schools. The delay in state funding means schools across the state are left without certainty, forcing program cuts and teacher layoffs as the school year begins.
In June, House Democrats introduced a school budget plan that includes categorical funding for universal school meals, while the Republican school budget plan aims to eliminate all funding for school meals. After the announcement from Okemos, state Rep. Julie Brixie (D-Meridian Twp.) released the following statement:
“When Democrats had control of the House, we passed a fiscally responsible and on-time budget that ensured school meals for all kids. Under Republican ‘leadership,’ Michigan is left without a final budget. Now, schools across the state are scrambling to adjust as they prepare for the coming school year without knowing what funds they can count on.
“It is clear that Republicans are more interested in playing politics than ensuring kids have food to eat while they’re at school. They are making one thing loud and clear: they’re okay with hungry kids. I’m not okay with that, and I will continue to fight for our community and a school budget that puts our kids first and makes sure no kid has to learn on an empty stomach.”
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