Texas Senate Bill SB1590

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a Texas grocery access investment fund program.

Impact

The establishment of the Texas Grocery Access Investment Fund is expected to have a significant impact on state laws governing food access and retail operations. It will authorize the Department of Agriculture to create guidelines for funding projects that improve grocery store access while also mandating that a portion of funding be allocated for grants or forgivable loans. Furthermore, by promoting the locations of grocery stores that adhere to specific nutritional guidelines, the program aims to enhance food access while bolstering local economies through job creation and retention within the targeted communities.

Summary

SB1590, known as the Texas Grocery Access Investment Fund program, aims to establish a fund to improve grocery access in underserved communities across Texas. This fund is designed to provide financing for constructing, rehabilitating, or expanding grocery stores in areas identified as having low supermarket access, particularly targeting urban and rural low and moderate income areas. The bill creates a partnership between the Texas Department of Agriculture and various public and private sector stakeholders to oversee this initiative, ensuring that it caters to the needs of communities with restricted access to nutritious foods.

Contention

While supporters of SB1590 argue that this initiative is a necessary step towards eliminating food deserts in Texas and promoting healthier eating habits among residents, some opponents may raise concerns regarding the allocation of state funds and the feasibility of the program's implementation. Questions may arise about the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in managing the funds and ensuring compliance with the program's objectives. Additionally, there could be debates on the criteria for financing specific grocery store projects and whether they adequately reflect the needs of the most underserved populations.