Bill > SB0474

This bill establishes a food desert grant program within the Indiana Department of Health (ISDH) to address the lack of fresh and healthy food in underserved areas. A "food desert" is defined as an area where affordable fresh, unprocessed, and healthy foods are difficult to obtain. The program will provide grants to new and existing retail businesses and nonprofit organizations to help them establish or improve grocery stores in these underserved areas. Grant recipients can use funds to open new stores or renovate existing businesses to increase access to fresh produce and healthy foods. The ISDH will evaluate grant applications based on criteria such as the area's need for fresh foods, the project's potential impact on the community, job creation, and the recipient's commitment to nutrition education. Grant recipients must allow annual audits, comply with reporting requirements, and may need to repay the grant if they do not meet the established terms. The bill creates a dedicated food desert fund, initially appropriating $2 million from the state general fund for the 2025-2027 biennium, and requires the ISDH to submit an annual report to the general assembly about the program's activities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/474/details