HB 24-1407 Summary

• Creates the Community Food Assistance Provider Grant Program in the state department to provide grants to eligible entities (food banks, food pantries, and faith-based organizations) for procurement and distribution of nutritious foods.

• Distributes $3,000,000 in general fund appropriations for fiscal year 2024-25, with minimum grant awards of $2,500 and up to 5% of total funds available for administrative costs.

• Prioritizes grants to eligible entities that purchase Colorado agricultural products or culturally significant agricultural products, with grant recipients allowed to use up to 10% of awards for food distribution expenses (transportation, delivery, staff, refrigeration, storage).

• Requires annual reporting beginning in fiscal year 2024-25 on the number of applicants and recipients, award amounts, geographic locations, and estimated food purchased and distributed.

• The grant program automatically repeals effective September 1, 2029, and repeals existing food pantry assistance grant programs (sections 26-2-139 and 26-2-144).