The bill appropriates a total of $3,900,000 from the general fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to the commissioner of agriculture for grants to Second Harvest Heartland, which supports Minnesota's six Feeding America food banks. The funds are designated for three primary purposes: purchasing milk for distribution to food shelves and charitable organizations, compensating agricultural producers for harvesting surplus fruits and vegetables, and acquiring protein products for food distribution. Specific allocations include at least $850,000 each year for milk, with provisions for administrative expenses, and allowances for administrative and transportation costs related to surplus food.
Additionally, the bill mandates that Second Harvest Heartland submit quarterly reports detailing the expenditure of funds, the quantity of food purchased, and the distribution of these commodities. This reporting requirement aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of the appropriated funds. The bill also includes a provision that allows any unencumbered balance at the end of fiscal year 2026 to remain available for use in fiscal year 2027, thereby enhancing the flexibility of fund allocation.