Healthy Food Financing Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2023

Healthy Food Financing Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2023

This bill reauthorizes and provides specified funds for the Department of Agriculture's Healthy Food Financing Initiative through FY2028 and for each fiscal year thereafter. (This program provides capacity building and financial resources to eligible healthy food retailers and food supply chain enterprises to assist them in overcoming the high costs and initial barriers to entry in underserved areas.)

Bill 118 HR 1509, also known as the Healthy Food Financing Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2023, aims to reauthorize and expand the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) program. The HFFI program was originally established in 2010 to increase access to healthy foods in underserved communities by providing financial assistance to grocery stores, farmers markets, and other food retailers in these areas.

The bill seeks to allocate funding for the HFFI program for the next five years, with the goal of continuing to support projects that improve access to fresh, nutritious foods in low-income neighborhoods. It also includes provisions to increase transparency and accountability in the program, ensuring that funds are used effectively and efficiently.

Additionally, the bill includes measures to promote partnerships between public and private entities to further expand access to healthy foods in underserved communities. This includes incentives for grocery stores and other retailers to open or expand in areas with limited access to fresh produce and other healthy food options. Overall, the Healthy Food Financing Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2023 aims to address food insecurity and promote healthy eating habits in low-income communities by providing financial support and resources to increase access to nutritious foods.