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Appropriators discuss $1M proposal to support rural grocery access; past pilot had mixed uses
Summary
The committee reviewed a $1 million proposal to support rural grocery-store initiatives — including cold lockers, delivery vans and other projects — noting prior grants funded feasibility studies, a food-processing facility and mobile-market expansion.
Representatives discussed Senate Bill 22-28, a $1 million appropriation to the Department of Commerce for grants aimed at preserving rural grocery stores and increasing food access. Representative Munson, who introduced the concept, described the original pilot model used around Park River: online ordering, refrigerated delivery vans and lockers in nearby small towns to address food deserts.
Witnesses and committee members noted the pilot’s demonstrated successes and discussed different possible uses of the funding, including matching grants and leveraging USDA or rural economic development funding. Vice Chair Jared Haggert said the Finance and Tax Committee found merit and recommended the request be forwarded to Appropriations for consideration alongside other rural-support proposals.
Committee members reviewing the earlier pilot raised questions about the previous allocation: recipients included feasibility-study grants, a food-processing facility, a refrigerated delivery truck and a mobile-market truck — not solely direct funding to keep individual grocery stores open. Representative Bosch said the earlier round awarded eleven $20,000 feasibility grants and several larger awards that did not directly preserve existing grocery stores.
Members agreed to hold the request pending other rural-support bills and to evaluate how funds would be distributed to avoid duplication with other programs.
