Universal free school meals (UFSMs) can reduce disparities in food and nutrition security by addressing barriers to accessing nutritious food. Eight states have passed permanent UFSMs policies and others are underway; however, existing research mainly considers the effects of UFSMs without examining their implementation. This study aims to: 1) Describe how UFSMs have been implemented in Colorado; 2) identify strategies that reduce barriers to meal participation; 3) determine whether and how Colorado’s policy benefits economically disadvantaged students; and 4) explore perceptions of UFSMs among individuals at the state, district, and local levels. The study will include a mix of qualitative methods, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and quasi-experimental methods involving analysis of state administrative data. Primary data will be sought from all 179 district food service directors in Colorado, up to five state school nutrition representatives, and up to 45 students, parents, and staff in total across three districts. Administrative data will include school/district-level outcomes statewide for low-income students, including Latinx/é and rural students.