Bill > HB48

This bill, known as the "Mississippi Grocery Initiative Act," establishes a program within the Department of Human Services to address "food deserts," which are defined as areas with inadequate access to affordable, nutritious foods, typically in lower-income communities lacking grocery stores within a specified distance. The initiative aims to expand access to healthy foods by providing grants and financial assistance to various "food resources," which include entities like grocery stores, food banks, restaurants, and programs that help people access healthy food. The Department of Human Services can also offer technical assistance and counseling to participants to help them navigate regulations and secure funding, and the program will be funded through legislative appropriations, taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB0048.xml