The bill introduces significant modifications to agricultural provisions in Minnesota, focusing on enhancing support for various agricultural programs and initiatives. Key appropriations include $399,000 annually for the voluntary cleanup program, $625,000 for soil health financial assistance, and $800,000 for pollinator research. A notable new appropriation of $3,000,000 is allocated for nitrate treatment, available until June 30, 2027. The bill also increases the base funding for the agriculture research, education, extension, and technology transfer program from $10,352,000 to $10,702,000 for fiscal year 2026, and modifies the language regarding mental health outreach for farmers. Additionally, it mandates Dairy Assistance, Investment, Relief Initiative (DAIRI) payments based on 2022 milk production, with provisions for unencumbered balances to extend use until June 30, 2026.

Further, the bill establishes a climate implementation coordinator to secure federal funding for agricultural climate adaptation and mitigation, with appropriations of $1,200,000 for the first year and $930,000 for the second year. It also allocates funds for various initiatives, including $250,000 for the University of Minnesota's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and $1,000,000 for down payment assistance grants for emerging farmers. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes to extend expiration dates for agricultural programs to June 30, 2030, and allows the commissioner to adopt rules regarding industrial hemp production without a two-year limitation. It also increases loan participation limits for beginning farmers and introduces a disaster recovery loan program to assist farmers with recovery needs, reflecting a commitment to strengthening agricultural resilience and supporting farmers facing financial challenges.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 18C.70, 18C.71, 18C.80, 31.94, 32D.30, 41B.039, 41B.04, 41B.042, 41B.043, 41B.045, 41B.047