NC S296

Creates the Healthy Food Small Retailer Fund within the Department of Commerce to assist small food retailers in food desert zones with stocking fresh produce and nutrient-dense foods.

Defines food desert zones as census tracts with poverty rates of 20% or greater (or median family income at or below 80% of state median) and limited grocery store access (more than 1 mile in metropolitan areas or 10 miles in rural areas).

Provides funding up to $5,000 per retailer for equipment installation, $100 for initial expenses, and $1,500 for technical assistance on food safety, nutrition education, and business operations.

Requires participating retailers to accept SNAP benefits and apply to accept WIC benefits, with performance agreements monitored by county or regional public health departments.

Appropriates $1,000,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Commerce for fiscal year 2015-2016 to support the program, with annual reporting required to legislative oversight committees.