The bill appropriates funds for farm-to-school and early care programs in Minnesota, aiming to enhance the availability of fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, grain, and dairy for children in educational and early childhood settings. Specifically, it allocates an unspecified amount for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to the commissioner of agriculture, who will also have the discretion to provide grants to reimburse schools and early childhood education providers for purchasing necessary equipment and agricultural products. Eligibility for these programs requires participation in the National School Lunch Program or the Child and Adult Care Food Program.

Additionally, the bill designates $150,000 each year for a statewide coordinator responsible for overseeing farm-to-institution strategies and providing technical assistance to farmers and institutions involved in the program. It also allows the commissioner to use up to 7.5 percent of total federal funds awarded for state administration of cooperative agreements related to purchasing Minnesota-grown foods, ensuring that federal administrative funds are utilized before state funds. The appropriation is made under the agricultural growth, research, and innovation program as outlined in Minnesota Statutes, section 41A.12.