(ABC 6 News) – Iowa lawmakers are working to address food insecurity in the state.

House File 2176 would help grocery stores pay for things like equipment, professional services and building improvements.

Lawmakers say the legislation will help mom-and-pop grocery stores stay open and shrink the number of food deserts in Iowa.

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The bill is still making its way through committee, but would address an urgent need in Iowa. According to a 2022 study from the University of Northern Iowa, more than 110 communities in the state can be classified as rural food deserts.

A 2018 study by the Northern Iowa Community Action Organization found 10% of residents in Cerro Gordo, 11% in Floyd and 8% in Hancock Counties experienced food insecurity.