S6017

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday to expand grocery store development in underserved communities, overcoming a gubernatorial veto from the previous year. Senate Print 6017, sponsored by Sen. Baskin, would add grocery store construction to eligible projects under the state's economic development program, providing grants and loans to entities opening new stores or expanding existing operations in food deserts. The measure passed 60-1, with only Sen. Walczyk voting in opposition. Sen. Baskin argued the bill addresses decades of disinvestment in minority neighborhoods and cited the 2022 mass shooting at a Tops Market in Buffalo—the only supermarket serving the predominantly Black East Side—as evidence of the dangers facing communities without adequate retail access. She noted the Governor's previous veto cited fiscal concerns and existing programs, but argued this bill is distinct and necessary. Sen. May spoke in support, highlighting a Syracuse grassroots organization seeking to establish a grocery store on South Salinas Street in an area where 30 percent of residents lack personal vehicles and have limited public transportation. The bill is expected to return to the Assembly for reconsideration.