As a family nurse practitioner working and living in the heart of Vermont, I have witnessed firsthand the significant benefits of Universal school meals on my young patients. These meals have not only been a great comfort to families struggling with food insecurity but have also significantly contributed to the health and well-being of our children. Alarmingly, Governor Phil Scott is proposing to eliminate the Vermont Universal Free School Meals program, aiming to save $18 million dollars from the state budget. This proposal, however, overlooks the potential increase in administrative costs associated with traditional school meal programs requiring income verification. Studies have shown that universal school meal programs can be more cost-effective due to lower administrative costs. Furthermore, the $18 million saving will pale in comparison to the increase in health care costs and the losses accruing from decreased learning potential and productivity of our children. We urge you to consider the long-term health, economic, and societal benefits of Universal Free School Meals and implore Governor Phil Scott to sustain this essential program in our schools. Stand against food insecurity, stand for our children, and sign this petition today.