Food Deserts Act

The Food Deserts Act aims to increase access to affordable, healthy food by establishing a Department of Agriculture grant program. Under this proposal, the federal government would provide grants to states to create revolving loan funds. These funds would then be used to provide low-interest loans to help open or support grocery stores in underserved areas, specifically targeting communities with high rates of poverty, hunger, or food insecurity. To qualify for these loans, stores would be required to sell unprocessed foods, fresh produce, and staple items at affordable prices.

If enacted, the bill would prioritize funding for grocery stores that commit to positive community impacts, such as hiring local workers and offering nutritional education classes. It also encourages stores to source products from local urban farms and gardens to strengthen regional food systems. While the program supports the operation and opening of stores, the bill specifies that the loan funds cannot be used for the initial construction of new buildings. The goal of the legislation is to ensure that residents in food deserts have a reliable, local source for fresh fruits, vegetables, and other healthful dietary essentials.