As the warm embrace of summer beckons, Oklahoma stands firm in its decision to forego participation in a novel federal program designed to provide meals for children who rely on free or reduced lunch during the school year. Governor Kevin Stitt, the architect of this decision, adamantly believes that the children of Oklahoma are sufficiently nourished during the summer months and thus sees no need to partake in the federal initiative.
A staggering 500,000 students in Oklahoma are enrolled in reduced lunch programs, and the federal funding for the summer meal initiative amounts to a substantial $60 million per year. Nonetheless, Governor Stitt remains steadfast in his conviction that the program may not necessarily be the ideal solution for the state, citing concerns over its vetting process.
Instead, the governor contends that Oklahoma has already contributed over $20 million to various food banks in recent years, coupled with the availability of SNAP benefits, which he deems as adequate measures to ensure that no child goes hungry over the summer. While he has not completely dismissed the prospect of joining the federal program in the future, Governor Stitt insists that more information about the initiative is necessary at present.
Under the federal program, eligible children would have received a monthly allowance of $40 through an EBT debit-card-style system. However, Governor Stitt’s reservations regarding the operational logistics and unknown costs pertaining to the program prompted his decision to decline the funds. Moreover, he expressed wariness about potential entanglements linked to the money from the Biden Administration.
The governor’s decision has sparked disappointment from Hunger Free Oklahoma CEO Chris Bernard, given Oklahoma’s subpar ranking in terms of food security. Bernard feels that the state is squandering an opportunity to capitalize on federal assistance in addressing a distressing issue that impacts countless Oklahomans.
Despite the governor’s unwavering stance, several tribes in Oklahoma, including the Cherokee and Chickasaw Nations, have expressed interest in partaking in the program. Cherokee Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Junior, has labelled the governor’s choice as “regrettable and bewildering.” In addition, Oklahoma Representative Melissa Provenzano has criticized the move, highlighting the lack of foresight in implementing new programs without a clear understanding of their implementation.
Amidst the disappointment expressed by advocates and tribal leaders, Governor Stitt remains resolute in his decision, assuring that there will be no change of heart this year. It is important to acknowledge that other governors have also opted out of the program for a multitude of reasons, with Iowa’s governor expressing concerns about children’s nutrition and Nebraska’s governor evincing skepticism towards welfare programs.
With summer on the horizon, the choice to eschew federal funding for the summer lunch program has left many Oklahomans pondering whether the state is truly undertaking enough to guarantee that all children have access to ample sustenance during the summer hiatus.
