San Francisco Supervisor Bilal Mahmood has announced a package of legislation designed to make groceries more affordable and accessible in the city. The plans, collectively known as the “Affordable Groceries Act,” aim to comprehensively address both food inflation and the food crisis in San Francisco.

Key Components of the Plan

The plan includes two measures that Mahmood is seeking to get on the ballot for the November election, and two ordinances that he intends to pass at the Board of Supervisors. The first ballot measure would tax large companies that hold vacant grocery or pharmacy plots in the city, while also streamlining the permitting process and eliminating some requirements for new businesses.

The vacancy tax revenue collected could go toward a second ballot measure, which seeks to create an “Affordable Grocery Fund” that could direct money to various programs intended to bring cheaper groceries to the city. The fund could be used to offer assistance for corner stores to convert into full groceries, subsidize rent for grocers who sell at lower prices, or help the city acquire buildings that could be used for food programs.

Mahmood worked closely with labor and food justice organizations to develop the package, which was inspired by Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s work in New York City. The plans have significant differences from those in New York City, with a focus on supporting private businesses rather than creating city-run grocery stores.

Original reporting: Mission Local — read the source article.