TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS HEALTHY FOOD RETAIL ACT OF 2025; AND TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL INCENTIVES FOR HEALTHY FOOD RETAILERS IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES.

HB 1965, known as the Arkansas Healthy Food Retail Act of 2025, establishes a program to provide financial incentives for healthy food retailers. This initiative aims to increase access to nutritious food for residents in underserved communities, including low-income and rural areas. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission will administer the Healthy Food Retailer Program, offering grants and loans to eligible for-profit and nonprofit retailers such as grocery stores and farmers' markets. These funds can support projects like new store construction, renovations, equipment, and workforce training. To qualify, retailers must commit to selling fresh produce and accept SNAP and WIC benefits, with the goal of improving public health and economic development.