This bill proposes the establishment of a new Food Desert Program under the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, aimed at improving access to fresh and affordable produce for residents living in food desert communities. A food desert community is defined as an area lacking access to nutritious, affordable food. The program will be implemented over two years and will involve the selection of partnering providers to set up weekly markets in at least three designated food desert communities, including one in a rural area. The Department of Agriculture will be responsible for soliciting these providers, working with local communities, and conducting outreach to raise awareness about the program.

The bill outlines specific requirements for partnering providers, which must demonstrate the ability to supply a consistent, year-round inventory of reasonably priced fresh fruits and vegetables. They will also be required to accept various forms of payment, offer reduced-price produce packages, provide storage guides and recipes, and donate any surplus produce to local food assistance organizations. Additionally, the Department of Agriculture is mandated to submit a report to the Legislature within two years of the program's enactment, detailing its implementation, the communities served, and recommendations for future legislative actions to enhance access to affordable produce in food desert areas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-67-1