The proposed bill establishes a new grant program under Minnesota Statutes, section 17.995, aimed at promoting nutrient management practices among farmers in Minnesota. The program will be administered by the commissioner of agriculture, who is tasked with awarding grants to eligible agricultural retailers. To qualify for these grants, retailers must be licensed and either certified or making progress toward certification under the 4R nutrient stewardship certification program. The bill outlines specific approved nutrient management practices that retailers can promote, which include soil testing, the use of enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, and various management plans to optimize nutrient application.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for grant payments, with amounts specified for retailers making progress toward certification and those implementing approved practices. The commissioner is authorized to award grants for training initiatives as well. Importantly, the bill also addresses data privacy, classifying field-specific and grower-identifiable data as nonpublic, ensuring that individual identities remain confidential throughout the grant-making process. The bill appropriates funds from the general fund for the program, allowing for administrative costs to be covered as well.