NY A07873

Establishes a task force to identify barriers preventing food retailers from opening or expanding in underserved areas (defined as low- or moderate-income census tracts, areas with below-average supermarket density, or areas where more than 50 percent of a supermarket's customer base is low-income).

Requires the Governor to convene the task force with representation from state agencies (Agriculture and Markets, Health, Taxation and Finance, Labor, Empire State Development Corporation, Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, and State Liquor Authority) and private stakeholders (retail and wholesale food industry, farmers, community development financial institutions, and local governments).

Directs the task force to assess local zoning impacts, licensing and permit requirements, and identify statutory and regulatory changes needed to streamline government approvals for food retail businesses in underserved areas.

Requires the task force to review and update existing government guidance information related to food retail business operations to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Task force must submit its report with findings and recommendations to the Governor, Speaker of the Assembly, and Senate Majority Leader by February 1, 2017.