Bill > SB3971

This bill appropriates $10,000,000 from the state's General Revenue Fund to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), which is a state agency responsible for economic development. This funding is specifically for grants to help establish hydroponic agriculture facilities, which are farms that grow plants using water-based nutrient solutions instead of soil, within existing empty commercial buildings. The bill prioritizes these grants for facilities located in or near areas identified as food deserts, meaning places with limited access to affordable and nutritious food, and in areas with a significant amount of vacant commercial property. This initiative is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=3971&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104