New Jersey Assembly Bill A1299

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

"Food Desert Elimination Act"; provides incentives to supermarkets and grocery stores that locate in "food deserts."

Impact

The bill includes provisions for tax credits for businesses that are the first to open a supermarket or grocery store in a designated food desert community. Taxpayers can benefit from a credit equal to their assessed property taxes for up to four years following their establishment of a supermarket. Additionally, the NJEDA will designate up to 75 areas in need of supermarkets based on criteria such as poverty statistics and population density. This is expected to promote better access to fresh produce and enhance the economic viability of these neighborhoods.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1299, also known as the 'Food Desert Elimination Act,' is aimed at addressing food insecurity in designated 'food desert' communities in New Jersey. The bill establishes the Food Desert Elimination Program, requiring the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) to implement incentives for supermarkets and grocery stores to open and maintain their operations in areas lacking sufficient access to nutritious foods, particularly fresh fruits and vegetables. This initiative seeks to improve overall health and dietary choices among residents in these communities.

Contention

Notably, the bill modifies existing regulations regarding alcohol distribution permits by allowing special permits to be issued to these supermarkets, which do not fall under the current limitations on the number of liquor licenses in a municipality. This could lead to concerns about increased access to alcohol in communities already facing economic and health challenges. Supporters argue the change incentivizes businesses to invest in underserved areas, while critics might worry about its implications on local public health and safety.