The bill, H.B. No. 304, introduces a new franchise tax credit aimed at incentivizing the establishment of grocery stores and healthy corner stores in designated food deserts within Texas. It amends Chapter 171 of the Tax Code by adding Subchapter N, which defines key terms such as "food desert," "grocery store," and "healthy corner store." The bill outlines the qualifications for entities to receive the tax credit, including the requirement that the store must be located in a food desert, accept benefits from the WIC program and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and remain open year-round.

Additionally, the bill specifies the process for certification of eligibility, the amount of credit available (5% of qualifying expenditures), and limitations on the total credit that can be claimed. It also allows for unused credits to be carried forward for up to five consecutive reports. The provisions of this act will take effect on January 1, 2026, and apply only to reports due on or after that date.

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