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HB 5300

DCEO-FOOD DESERT ZONES

104th Regular Session Introduced by Sonya Harper and 1 co-sponsor

Illinois bill creates DCEO food desert zone tax incentives to attract grocery retailers and food vendors to underserved low-income communities lacking fresh food access.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 5300

Legislative bill overview

HB 5300 establishes a food desert zone program under the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to incentivize business development in underserved areas lacking adequate access to fresh food and groceries. The bill likely creates tax credits or other economic incentives for grocers, farmers markets, or food retailers willing to operate in designated food desert zones.

Why is this important

Food deserts are documented public health concerns where low-income residents lack affordable access to nutritious food, contributing to diet-related diseases. Economic incentives can help bridge the gap by making it financially viable for private businesses to serve these underserved communities, potentially reducing health disparities and supporting local economies.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and fiscal impact: The bill's tax credit or incentive structure could significantly reduce state revenue; the actual cost depends on program design and uptake rates
  • Geographic definition disputes: Disagreement may arise over which areas qualify as "food deserts" and whether designations fairly reflect actual community need versus political boundaries
  • Market sustainability: Critics may question whether tax incentives create lasting solutions or merely subsidize businesses that will exit once incentives expire, leaving communities vulnerable again

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

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