A new law that takes effect in Illinois January first, is aimed at preventing so-called food deserts in areas where residents have to travel for miles to find a grocery store. It’s estimated more than three million Illinois residents live in one of these areas. The new law will invest 20-million dollars in a program that helps keep grocery stores open and promotes local independent grocers who are opening stores. The state will prove technical assistance, marketing and support with operational costs for anyone or any group trying to open stores in food deserts.
