Bill > A08692

This bill establishes the "Food Retail Establishment Subsidization for Healthy Communities Act" (FRESH Communities), which aims to address food access issues in underserved urban and rural areas. The legislation recognizes that low-income communities often lack access to fresh food retailers, which contributes to nutritional challenges, increased public health costs, and limited economic opportunities. The bill authorizes the New York State Urban Development Corporation to provide loans, loan guarantees, interest subsidies, and grants to businesses, municipalities, non-profit corporations, and local development corporations to attract, maintain, and expand food retail establishments in underserved areas. To qualify for assistance, food retail establishments must meet specific criteria, including participating in the New York grown and certified program, accepting electronic benefit transfer payments for nutrition assistance programs, not charging membership fees, and hiring local residents within a 20-mile radius. The corporation will evaluate applications based on economic viability and community impact, and will track and publish performance indicators on its website. "Underserved areas" are defined to include low or moderate-income census tracts, areas with below-average supermarket density, and locations with significant access limitations. The bill is designed to create employment opportunities, support local farmers, and improve access to nutritious food for residents in economically challenged communities.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8692