This bill establishes a budget for various agricultural and broadband development agencies in Minnesota, including the Department of Agriculture and the Board of Animal Health, with appropriations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. It details funding allocations for programs such as soil health financial assistance, livestock compensation, and meat processing support, while allowing the commissioner to use a portion of these funds for administrative costs. The bill also introduces new programs aimed at enhancing agricultural growth and mental health outreach for agricultural workers, alongside reporting requirements for accountability in fund usage.

Additionally, the bill includes amendments to existing laws regarding agricultural funding and telecommunications infrastructure. It requires county agricultural inspectors to submit annual applications for funding eligibility and appropriates $1,001,000 annually for the Office of Broadband Development. In telecommunications, the bill revises installation requirements by removing the need for two safety-qualified installers during directional drilling and reduces certification instructional hours from 40 to 10, while still requiring a refresher course every three years. These changes aim to improve agricultural sustainability, support emerging farmers, and enhance broadband access in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
1st Engrossment: 17.133, 18C.005, 41A.16, 326B.198