Bill > S1176

This bill establishes a comprehensive tax credit and grant program designed to improve food access in areas known as "food deserts" - regions where residents have limited access to affordable and healthy food options. The bill creates a new tax credit for businesses that establish or renovate grocery stores in these underserved areas, offering up to 15% credit for new store construction and 10% for renovation expenses. Additionally, the program provides grants to food banks and "temporary access merchants" like mobile markets and farmers markets operating in food deserts. To qualify, these businesses must meet specific criteria, such as being located in areas where at least 500 people or 33% of the population live more than 1 mile (in metropolitan areas) or 10 miles (in non-metropolitan areas) from a grocery store, and where poverty rates are at least 20%. The bill also requires the Department of Agriculture to regularly update its Food Access Research Atlas to track new food retailers. Importantly, the tax credits and grants are subject to recapture if the businesses do not maintain their qualifying status for five years, ensuring long-term commitment to serving these communities. The goal is to stimulate investment in healthy food options and improve nutrition in economically disadvantaged areas across the United States.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1176/all-info