SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) continues his advocacy to address food deserts across the state by unanimously passing Senate Bill 3265 off the Senate floor Tuesday afternoon.

“Our state is making great strides in raising awareness to the food desert problem that several of our local communities face,” said Senator Fowler. “Addressing food deserts requires a multifaceted approach that includes improving access to healthy food, supporting local food systems, and identifying the root causes of food insecurity.”

Senate Bill 3265 would create a program within the Illinois Department of Agriculture, tasked with establishing and operating projects and strategies that focus on the distribution of fresh, nutritious food while providing education in food preparation and nutrition in food deserts.

“Passing this bill out of the Senate ensures access to the education necessary to bring fresh, affordable food to the underserved areas of our state,” concluded Sen. Fowler. 

The bill now heads to the House for further consideration.