Higher Education - Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program - Alterations

HB 774 modifies Maryland's Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program to increase annual funding from $150,000 (2023-2026) to $225,000 (starting 2027) and adjusts eligibility requirements. It requires public 4-year colleges and regional centers to meet specific campus food security standards (like establishing hunger task forces, food pantries, and meal-sharing programs), while 2-year colleges have simplified requirements excluding meal-sharing and campus retailer options. The bill mandates that institutions receiving grants provide at least $25,000 in matching funds (cash or in-kind) to support program goals. This directly affects Maryland's public colleges and universities, aiming to address student hunger through sustainable campus-based food access initiatives.