FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) – A coalition pushing for free school meals says it’s moving forward with a ballot measure after the North Dakota Senate rejected similar legislation today.

The Senate voted 24-22 against House Bill 1624, which would have provided up to $65 million for free breakfast and lunch for all students.

Now, Together for School Meals is collecting signatures to put the issue directly to voters in November.

Robin Nelson chairs the group’s sponsoring committee. She says providing school meals at no cost strengthens academic performance and reduces stress on families.

The coalition needs 31,164 signatures to get the measure on the ballot.

If approved by voters, it would amend the state constitution to guarantee every K-12 student access to one breakfast and one lunch each school day at no cost to families.

Spokesperson Amy Jacobson says legislators acknowledged strong public support during the debate, and the coalition will honor that by taking it to the voters.