This bill establishes a grocer reinvestment program, a local produce processing grant program, and a grocer reinvestment and local food processing fund, all under the oversight of the economic development authority. The grocer reinvestment program aims to provide financial assistance in the form of grants to eligible grocery stores for various projects, including capital improvements, utility upgrades, and technology enhancements. To qualify for assistance, grocery stores must meet specific criteria, such as being organized as a recognized business entity, owning five or fewer stores, and demonstrating a sustainable project plan. Priority for funding will be given to projects located in underserved communities that serve low or moderate-income residents and that accept federal nutrition assistance benefits.

Additionally, the bill creates a local produce processing grant program to support Iowa-based entities in increasing the availability and efficiency of local produce processing. Grants will be prioritized for projects that involve local produce from multiple Iowa farms. The bill also establishes a fund to support both the grocer reinvestment and local produce processing programs, with a commitment of $2 million in appropriations from the state general fund for the next two fiscal years. Furthermore, the bill modifies the local food and farm program to include grocery stores in its objectives, emphasizing the importance of retailing local food and enhancing the viability of grocery stores in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15.413, 267A.1, 267A.2