Rep. Michele Rayner has filed legislation aimed at helping local governments open small-footprint grocery stores in Florida food deserts.

If approved, HB 337 would allow local governments to streamline zoning and land-use regulations to simplify approval of small grocery stores that sell fresh produce and other nutritious foods in communities identified as food insecure.

Rayner, a St. Petersburg Democrat, said the bill is about giving local leaders the tools to address food access at a time when many Floridians are struggling to afford basic groceries.

“As individuals and families across our state continue to face rising costs and fewer resources to help them in times of need, we need to work together to ensure everyone has easy access to affordable, healthy food,” Rayner said in

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