Massachusetts has joined a small but growing number of states adopting universal free school meals programs. Spending for the program was included in an overdue $55.98 billion state budget signed into law by Democratic Gov. Maura Healey on Wednesday. The budget covers the 2024 fiscal year that began July 1. Jennifer Lemmerman discusses why it's important for all students to be well-fed at school to achieve their highest academic potential. #freelunch #pandemic #publicschool Get a fast-paced look at the latest from the border to Main Street to the White House on "NewsNation Live with Marni Hughes." Weekdays starting at 10a/9C.#NewsNationLive NewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all America. More from NewsNation: newsnationnow.com Get our app: trib.al/TBXgYpp Find us on cable: trib.al/YDOpGyG How to watch on TV or streaming: trib.al/Vu0Ikij