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Bill

SB 96

AN ACT ESTABLISHING TAX CREDITS FOR GROCERY STORES BUILT IN LOW-INCOME AREAS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Paul Cicarella

Connecticut would offer tax credits to grocery retailers opening or expanding in low-income neighborhoods to combat food deserts and improve community health access.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Finance, Revenue and Bonding
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Bill Summary · SB 96

Legislative bill overview

SB 96 would establish tax credits for grocery stores that build or operate locations in low-income areas of Connecticut. The bill aims to incentivize private investment in food retail infrastructure where such services are often limited or absent. This represents a market-based approach to addressing food deserts through financial incentives rather than direct government spending.

Why is this important

Food deserts—neighborhoods lacking affordable access to fresh groceries—are associated with higher rates of diet-related diseases, reduced property values, and economic disinvestment in low-income communities. By offering tax incentives, the state seeks to attract retailers to underserved areas without direct public expenditure, potentially improving community health outcomes and economic development simultaneously.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal cost uncertainty: Tax credits represent foregone state revenue with unpredictable costs depending on participation rates and credit amounts; the bill's specific dollar amounts and duration would determine budgetary impact
  • Effectiveness questions: Retailers may locate in low-income areas regardless of credits, making the incentive redundant; conversely, credits alone may not overcome legitimate business concerns about profitability in certain markets
  • Eligibility definition: The bill's definition of "low-income areas" and "grocery stores" (does it include small markets, corner stores, or only full-service retailers?) will significantly affect which businesses benefit and whether the policy achieves stated goals

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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