By Scout Nelson
Governor Walz has officially signed Chapter 34, House File 2446, into law. Known as the Agriculture and Broadband Development Policy and Finance Bill, it provides key funding to support Minnesota’s agriculture sector and rural communities.
The bill ensures funding for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, the Minnesota Board of Animal Health, and the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute. It also supports new and existing programs that focus on food security, safety, and sustainability.
“We worked closely with lawmakers throughout the session to craft a bill that invests in Minnesota agriculture and our farmers and ranchers,” said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “The bill also provides food to those in need, supports mental health and farm safety resources, and protects our natural resources. It is a major win for our ag community and sets us all up for success now and into the future.”
Key investments include a state-level Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program, offering $700,000 annually from FY26 to FY29, to replace a discontinued federal program. Farm to School and Early Care will receive an added $550,000 to strengthen local food access in schools.
Emergency support has also been increased with $1.5 million added to the Ag Emergency Account, and $400,000 for avian influenza protection.
Additional highlights include:
- $1 million yearly to buy milk for food shelves
- Funding for rural mental health and safety
- Support for first-time farm buyers and meat processors
- $2.75 million in biofuels grants per year
- Grants for ag organizations and soil health programs
The law also expands eligibility for biofuel sites and starts a biofertilizer pilot program. Funding will take effect on July 1, 2025, promoting long-term sustainability and food access statewide.
Photo Credit:minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy