Proposed Tennessee bill requires schools to feed students even if they cannot pay

MEMPHIS, Tenn (WTVD) -- A newly proposed bill in Tennessee is attempting to end hunger in public schools, according to a report from Fox 13.

The bill is called the Tennessee Student Hunger Free Act.

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Nearly 83,000 students in Tennessee's Shelby County already receive free or reduced lunch.

If passed, the bill would prevent schools from taking action against any student who cannot pay for a meal. It would also require schools to help parents get free or reduced priced meals for any eligible student.

Shelby County parent and volunteer Helen Collins told FOX13 that it should be a crime to leave a child hungry at school.

"A child that doesn't eat is a child that is left behind. A child that doesn't eat can't function," Collins said.

The bill is expected to be voted on in March. If it's passed, it will go into effect next year.