The Arkansas Healthy Food Retail Act of 2025 aims to enhance access to healthy food options in underserved communities by providing financial incentives to healthy food retailers. The Act establishes a new subchapter within Arkansas Code Title 15, Chapter 4, which outlines the legislative findings that highlight the importance of fresh produce availability for low-income families, children, and the elderly. It recognizes the high rates of obesity in Arkansas and the need for improved access to healthy food retailers, particularly in low-income, minority, and rural areas. The Act intends to create a Healthy Food Retailer Program that will offer funding through grants and loans to support the establishment and improvement of healthy food retail outlets.

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission will oversee the Healthy Food Retailer Program, which will provide funding for various projects, including the construction of new retailers, renovations, and infrastructure upgrades. Eligible applicants include a range of entities such as nonprofits, cooperatives, and governmental organizations, provided they demonstrate a commitment to selling fresh produce and serving underserved communities. The program will also establish benchmarks and accountability measures to ensure effective use of funds and positive impacts on community health and economic vitality.