Bill > HB1453

This bill reenacts and extends the Small Business and Grocer Investment Act, a program administered by the Mississippi Development Authority to provide financing and support for healthy food retailers in underserved communities. The bill specifically extends the repealer (expiration date) of the act from July 1, 2025, to July 1, 2028. The program aims to create jobs, expand markets for Mississippi farmers, and improve access to fresh fruits and vegetables in both urban and rural areas with limited food retail options. The Mississippi Development Authority is authorized to establish a public-private partnership to provide grants, loans, and technical assistance to eligible food retailers. Eligible projects can include new store construction, renovations, infrastructure upgrades, farmers' markets, and other initiatives that improve healthy food access. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to selling fresh produce and benefit an underserved community, which is defined as a geographic area with limited access to healthy food retailers in a designated economically distressed county. Additionally, the bill brings forward several sections of Mississippi law related to alcoholic beverages, which appear to be standard legislative practice to maintain the current legal framework while potentially preparing for future amendments.

Budget and Finance

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1453.xml