This bill aims to enhance support for beginning farmers in Minnesota by introducing the definition of a "limited-resource farmer," which includes those with restricted land or market access. It modifies reporting requirements for farm down payment assistance grants to include data on limited-resource farmers alongside emerging farmers. The bill also revises eligibility criteria for tax credits and grants, prioritizing limited-resource farmers and updating the definitions of social equity applicants in cannabis licensing. Key amendments involve replacing the term "emerging" with "limited-resource" in various sections, thereby refining the focus of agricultural assistance programs and mandating annual reports to the legislature on the impact of these programs.

Additionally, the bill outlines funding allocations for agricultural programs in Minnesota for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, including $474,000 for county and district agricultural societies, $350,000 for the Minnesota Agricultural Education and Leadership Council, and $1,950,000 for grants to Second Harvest Heartland. It introduces funding for initiatives such as the Local Emergency Assistance Farmer Fund and mental health counseling for farm operators, while emphasizing support for limited-resource farmers through technical assistance and equipment purchases. The bill also establishes a climate implementation coordinator position within the Department of Agriculture to enhance coordination of climate-related activities, with an effective date set for July 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 17.133