Nashville, TENN. - State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, has introduced legislation to create a hunger-free campus grant program that helps higher education institutions provide food for students.

A Tennessee Higher Education Commission report estimates that 30% of students face food insecurity.

“This bill ensures that no student has to choose between their education and having enough to eat,” Hale said. “By providing resources and support we can eliminate food insecurity and help students focus on their studies and future success.”

House Bill 7 aims to address food insecurity at universities and community colleges across Tennessee. To qualify for the grant, schools must have a food pantry or partner with a community pantry and create a “Hunger Task Force” that includes at least two students. The task force will assess food insecurity and recommend solutions.

The grants will support initiatives like meal credit donations, meal voucher systems and financial aid for food pantries. Schools will also raise awareness about available resources for students in need.

Institutions will be required to submit an annual report to the House Education Administration Subcommittee detailing their efforts, the demographics served and best practices used to address food insecurity.

House Bill 7 will be heard in the House Education Committee on March 25.

Michael Hale represents District 40 which includes Cannon, Dekalb, Jackson, Smith and part of Wilson Counties.