Bucknell students should not be forced to buy a university meal plan. We all should be allowed to opt out.

- Opting out of meal plans is the least financially burdensome option and allows the most nutritional flexibility.

- Students have access to kitchen areas. During this pandemic, students should be able to control the sanitation and preparation of their own meals.

- For students with dietary restrictions or other special nutritional needs, few pre-packaged selections may not adequately accommodate their diet. Furthermore, students with allergies can avoid cross-contamination and be confident in the safety of their meals if they prepare their own food.

- Allowing students to opt out of a dining plan will reduce congestion in high-traffic dining facilities which will decrease the likelihood of a COVID-19 outbreak and help maintain the safety of the student population.

- Students who live off-campus are not required to buy a meal plan. Why shouldn't all students enjoy the same option?

If students are able to opt out of a meal plan but still allowed to add Dining Dollars to their account, they will be able to choose the combination of campus food and off-campus food that best suits their needs.