Cohen Introduces Bill to Bring Fresh, Healthy Foods to Underserved "Food Deserts"

Press Release

Prior to returning to his work in Memphis last week, Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) introduced H.R. 3015, the Supermarket Tax Credit for Underserved Areas Act, to help reduce the prevalence of "food deserts" and help ensure that healthy, fresh food is available throughout the nation, including in urban areas. The legislation would provide tax incentives for the establishment of supermarkets in empowerment zones and formerly designated renewal communities.

"Too many Americans live in so-called "food deserts,' communities without sufficient access to a wide variety of fresh, healthy foods," said Congressman Cohen. "Studies have shown that lack of access to healthy foods is a challenge in many underserved urban and rural communities--but this legislation faces that challenge directly and will help overcome it. We should do all that we can to keep children and families healthy, and this bill is a step that will help in Memphis and in communities across the nation."

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1 in 6 Americans live in low income communities more than half a mile from the nearest large grocery store, and many studies have shown that lack of access to the foods needed to maintain a healthy diet is a challenge that is particularly prevalent in low-income urban and rural communities. Residents of these communities are often limited to purchasing foods that are less healthy, which can contribute to the decline in health and well-being as well as may contribute to diet-related illnesses.

In addition to incentivizing the establishment of supermarkets, the Supermarket Tax Credit for Underserved Areas would also provide a tax credit for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables from local community gardens and farmer's markets.

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