Texas Senate Bill SB358

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to a franchise tax credit for entities that establish a grocery store or healthy corner store in a food desert.

Impact

This legislation is expected to enhance state laws concerning economic development and public health. By providing tax incentives, the bill aims to attract businesses to underserved areas, thereby improving food accessibility for residents. Additionally, the qualification criteria include requirements for participating in governmental assistance programs like WIC and SNAP, ensuring that the stores cater to a broad customer base, particularly low-income households. Over time, this could lead to improved health outcomes and nutritional standards within affected communities, fostering better community well-being.

Summary

SB358 proposes a franchise tax credit aimed at incentivizing the establishment of grocery stores and healthy corner stores in food deserts across Texas. The bill defines food deserts as areas with limited access to healthy food retailers, especially in low-income or high-poverty regions. The credit amount is set at five percent of the qualifying expenditures for opening and establishing these stores, encouraging investments in communities that lack sufficient access to nutritious food options. The bill is a response to growing concerns over food insecurity and the health implications associated with poor access to healthy foods.

Contention

While supporters of SB358 argue that it serves an essential public need, there are potential points of contention regarding the implementation of such a tax credit. Concerns may arise about the effective use of public funds, specifically whether the tax credits would result in sustainable grocery operations or merely serve as short-term incentives. Additionally, there could be debates on how the term 'food desert' is defined and the potential qualifications for stores to be recognized as contributing positively to the community's food landscape. Stakeholders may also discuss whether the bill adequately addresses the root causes of food insecurity beyond just the availability of grocery stores.