(a) The Department shall designate a grocery ambassador to assist retailers of healthy foods in this State by: (1) providing research and data on eligible areas with insufficient grocery access; (2) coordinating with the Department and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and other relevant State agencies; (3) providing assistance to small grocery retailers in this State, including obtaining and expediting regulatory procedures; and (4) providing other assistance as needed.
     (b) The Department and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity may issue grants, on a competitive basis, for the establishment of a commercial distribution system for fresh produce and healthy foods.