MS HB1328

Establishes the Small Business and Grocer Investment Act, authorizing the Mississippi Development Authority to create a program providing grants and loans to healthy food retailers in underserved communities.

Defines eligible projects including new construction of grocery stores, store renovations, farmers' markets, food cooperatives, and mobile delivery projects that increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

Allows funding to cover site acquisition, construction, equipment, workforce training, security, market studies, and working capital for inventory.

Applicants must demonstrate commitment to selling fresh produce and meet eligibility criteria including operating in underserved communities (Tier Two or Tier Three counties) and showing economic self-sustainability capacity.

Requires the agency to establish benchmarks and monitoring mechanisms, track fruit and vegetable sales data, and submit annual reports to the Legislature on funded projects and outcomes; program sunsets July 1, 2016.