Bill > HF1032

This bill establishes two new programs to support local food systems and grocery stores in Iowa. The Grocer Reinvestment Program, administered by the economic development authority, will provide financial assistance up to $100,000 to eligible grocery stores (defined as stores where at least 30-50% of space or revenue comes from food sales) for projects like capital improvements, equipment purchases, technology upgrades, and professional services. To qualify, stores must be locally owned (10 or fewer locations), file proper state documents, and demonstrate project sustainability. Priority will be given to stores in smaller communities that accept nutrition assistance programs, create local jobs, and source local foods. A new Grocer Reinvestment and Local Food Processing Fund will finance this program, with annual allocations and administrative provisions. Simultaneously, the bill creates a Local Produce Processing Grant Program to support Iowa-based entities that process local fruits and vegetables, with preference given to operations processing produce from multiple Iowa farms. The bill also modifies the Local Food and Farm Program's purpose to explicitly include supporting grocery stores and retailing local food, expanding the program's scope to enhance local food economy resilience and job creation across the agricultural sector.

Budget and Finance

Appropriations (House)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF1032