Poverty
Poverty in Minnesota is a persistent problem, even if we don't always see it. Nearly one in ten Minnesotans lived in poverty in 2008, including 133,096 children. Senator Franken strongly supports efforts to lift people out of poverty and help them get back on their feet.
Senator Franken is also extremely concerned about hunger in Minnesota, particularly during these tough economic times. That's why in the 111th Congress the Senator introduced S. 1737, the Expand School Meals Act. Currently, children in families at 130 to 185 percent of the poverty line are eligible for reduced-price school meals. Yet, sometimes even the small cost of a reduced price meal is too much for some kids, and they are forced to skip school meals. This bill would ensure that children who are currently eligible for reduced-price school meals get free school meals instead. Children should be able to pay attention to their classes and what they're learning while at school-not be distracted by hunger. The Senator plans to introduce similar legislation in the 112th Congress.
