Bill > SB282

This bill establishes the Grocery Initiative within the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services to address food deserts and improve food access across the state. The bill defines a "food desert" as a census tract meeting specific poverty and accessibility criteria, such as having a significant percentage of households below the poverty line or residents living far from a grocery store. Through the Grocery Initiative, the Department can award grants to eligible grocery stores for various purposes including market feasibility studies, marketing materials, salaries, rent, capital improvements, and equipment purchases. Grocery stores must meet specific requirements to receive assistance, such as being principally devoted to selling groceries, accepting nutrition assistance benefits, and providing a substantial variety of perishable foods. The Department is also required to provide technical assistance to grant recipients and make informational resources available online. Additionally, the Council on Food Security will be tasked with researching food insecurity in urban and rural food deserts, exploring market failures, geographic trends, and disparities in grocery store ownership. The bill appropriates $10 million from the State General Fund to support the initiative, with funds available until June 30, 2027, and requires the Council to submit a comprehensive report to the 84th Legislative Session summarizing its research and recommendations.