Pritzker signs bill combating food deserts across Illinois

State Sen. Christopher Belt, D-Swansea, at a bill signing Friday for a measure that will provide $20 million to tackle the number of food deserts across the state. (Screenshot)

Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Friday signed legislation that will combat the state’s food deserts by sending $20 million to grocers to open and expand stores in underserved rural towns and low-income neighborhoods.

The measure establishes the Illinois Grocery Initiative, a new policy that will support existing grocers and also help encourage new grocers by allowing stores receiving grants to be able to receive tax credits and other incentives.