The bill establishes a comprehensive budget for the Department of Agriculture, the Board of Animal Health, and the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute, while implementing various policy and technical changes to enhance agricultural practices in Minnesota. It includes appropriations for several key programs, such as the soil health financial assistance program, compensation for destroyed livestock, and funding for agricultural research and education. Notably, the bill allows the commissioner of agriculture to allocate a percentage of the appropriated funds for administrative costs and specifies funding amounts for initiatives supporting dairy development, urban agriculture, and food retail improvements. Additionally, it introduces new programs aimed at improving food access in underserved communities and expands mental health support for farm operators and their families.

The bill also amends existing statutes related to seed potato certification, food handling, and agricultural loans, introducing new definitions, grading standards, and regulatory processes. Key changes include the establishment of a Retail Improvement and Development Program, the introduction of a food handler license account, and adjustments to fees associated with grain buyers and storage accounts. The bill emphasizes compliance with updated standards for seed potatoes, including inspection and certification processes, and mandates specific reporting requirements for food distribution organizations. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance food access, support local agriculture, and promote sustainable practices, while streamlining regulatory frameworks to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in Minnesota's agricultural sector.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 17.1017, 17.1018, 17.117, 17.118, 17.133, 18B.26, 18J.01, 18J.02, 18J.03, 18J.04, 18J.05, 18J.06, 18J.07, 18J.09, 21.111, 21.112, 21.113, 21.115, 21.117, 21.119, 21.1195, 21.1196, 21.891, 28A.03, 28A.04, 28A.05, 28A.06, 28A.07, 28A.0753, 28A.08, 28A.085, 28A.14, 28A.17, 32D.01, 41B.039, 41B.04, 41B.042, 41B.043, 41B.045, 41B.047, 41B.056, 41B.057, 223.17, 232.22