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LANSING, Mich. (AP) — A lawmaker is advocating for $6.5 million in funding to make fresh and nutritious food available in underserved communities across Michigan.
The legislation, which will be promoted Thursday at a farmers market on the Capitol lawn in Lansing, would provide grants and loans for grocery stores and local public health agencies.
The goal is to help retailers open, renovate or expand grocery stores primarily in low- and moderate-income areas without enough fruit, vegetables and other fresh food.
Entities receiving the financing would have to accept cards from residents who qualify for government food assistance.
The bill sponsor, Republican Rep. Dave Pagel of White Lake, is an apple farmer who says expanding access to healthy food will help people live healthier lives.
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Online:
House Bill 5180: http://bit.ly/2bQIqe7
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