A new legislative proposal, House Bill 2033, was introduced in Texas on January 23, 2025, aiming to tackle food insecurity in underserved areas. The bill seeks to establish a Community Development Grocery Store Grant Program, which would provide financial assistance to businesses planning to open grocery stores in designated "food deserts."

The bill defines a food desert as a census tract where poverty rates exceed 20% or median family income falls below 80% of the area median, and where a significant portion of the population lives far from grocery stores—more than one mile in urban areas and ten miles in rural regions. To qualify for the grant, businesses must demonstrate substantial capital investment, local government support, and financial stability.

Funding for the program would come from various sources, including the Texas Enterprise Fund, which is designed to promote economic development. The bill emphasizes the importance of grocery stores that prioritize food accessibility, requiring that at least 66% of retail space be dedicated to food products, with specific allocations for non-prepared and perishable foods.

Supporters of the bill argue that it addresses critical public health issues by improving access to nutritious food in low-income areas, potentially reducing health disparities linked to poor diet. However, the proposal has faced scrutiny regarding its funding sources and the effectiveness of grants in stimulating long-term economic growth.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications could extend beyond food access, potentially influencing local economies and public health initiatives across Texas. The next steps will involve committee reviews and discussions, where further amendments may be proposed.