State Representative Sandra Scott (D-Rex) recently introduced House Bill 321, or the “Healthy Food Program Development Act,” legislation which would create a state program to expand access to healthy foods in communities with “food deserts.”
“Georgians are experiencing hunger daily,” said Rep. Scott. “We have ‘food deserts’ throughout Georgia, and this legislation would address ‘food deserts’ and provide access to healthy food. The Healthy Food Program Development Act would offer grocery stores and other retailers incentives to stock healthy and substantial food at affordable prices during these difficult times.”
Under HB 321, the Georgia Department of Human Services would establish the Healthy Food Development Program to expand access to healthy foods in eligible areas in this state by providing assistance to grocery stores, corner stores, farmers’ markets and other small food retailers. This program would award grants, loans, tax credits and other financial benefits to retailers on a competitive basis with priority given to those with the greatest potential to expand access to healthy foods in underserved areas.
First Reader Summary – A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Article 1 of Chapter 2 of Title 49 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to general provisions relative to the Department of Human Services, so as to provide for the establishment of the Healthy Food Development Program; to provide for a short title; to provide definitions; to provide for various benefits; to provide requirements; to provide for a grocery ambassador; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
Read more on House Bill 321 here.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes portions of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as the Minority Caucus Chief Deputy Whip. She also serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
legis.ga.gov
