SB0850: STATE GOVERNMENT-TECH

Legislative Summary

Reinserts the provisions of the engrossed bill with changes. Provides that the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity may designate an area as a food desert even if the area does not meet the qualifications set forth in the engrossed bill as long as the designation is made in accordance with criteria established by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity by rule using data that includes, but is not limited to, poverty metrics and access to existing grocery stores. Provides that the provisions of the engrossed bill apply to independently owned for-profit grocery stores, cooperative grocery stores, or not-for-profit grocery stores (in the engrossed bill, only independently owned for-profit grocery stores). Amends the Public Utilities Act to make conforming changes.