WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2033

Relating to the establishment of the community development grocery store grant program and to the use of money from the Texas Enterprise Fund for the program.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Terry Meza

HB 2033 creates a Texas grocery store grant program funded by the state Enterprise Fund to establish stores in underserved communities lacking food access.

Referred to Trade, Workforce & Economic Development
#business&commerce--general(i0050) #economicdevelopment&tourismoffice #texas(v1109) #economic&industrialdevelopment--general(i0214) #food(s0761) #statefinances--management&control(i0748) #texasenterprisefund(s0615)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2033

Legislative bill overview

HB 2033 establishes a new community development grocery store grant program in Texas and authorizes the use of Texas Enterprise Fund money to finance it. The program would provide grants to support grocery store development in underserved communities, addressing food access gaps in areas lacking adequate retail food options.

Why is this important

Food deserts—areas with limited access to fresh groceries—correlate with higher rates of diet-related health issues and economic disadvantage. By leveraging the Texas Enterprise Fund (a state economic development tool), this bill attempts to address both public health and community economic development simultaneously, potentially attracting private investment while improving food security.

Potential points of contention

  • Enterprise Fund prioritization: Critics may question whether grocery stores are the best use of limited enterprise fund dollars versus other economic development priorities like manufacturing or tech sectors
  • Program design and oversight: Details about grant eligibility, store size requirements, location criteria, and accountability measures aren't apparent from the title alone—implementation could significantly affect outcomes
  • Sustainability concerns: Without addressing underlying economics, grocery stores in low-income areas may struggle long-term; grants alone may not ensure operational viability or prevent future closures

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

Sign in to ask a question.