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 funding is designated for three primary purposes: purchasing milk for distribution to food shelves and charitable organizations, compensating agricultural producers and processors for harvesting surplus fruits and vegetables, and acquiring protein products for distribution. Specific allocations include at least $850,000 each year for milk purchases, with provisions for administrative expenses, and allowances for Second Harvest Heartland to use a portion of the grants for administrative and transportation costs related to surplus commodities.
Additionally, the bill mandates that Second Harvest Heartland submit quarterly reports to the commissioner and relevant legislative committees detailing the expenditure of funds, the quantity of commodities purchased, and the distribution of food. This reporting requirement aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of the appropriated funds. The bill emphasizes the importance of sourcing food from Minnesota producers and processors, thereby supporting local agriculture while addressing food insecurity in the state.