The bill is a transformative investment in farmers and communities across Minnesota.
SAINT PAUL, Minn.– On Thursday, the Senate passed the omnibus agriculture, broadband, and rural development omnibus budget bill authored by Senator Aric Putnam (DFL-St. Cloud) with bipartisan support. The bill brings stability and financial security to farmers, expands land access, helps new farmers, and supports innovation in agriculture.
“The Senate passed a great bill today,” said Senator Putnam. “This bill was written to solve problems, build strong relationships, and promote a brighter future for Minnesota’s agriculture community. We listened to the voice of the farmer. This bill was written in town halls and listening sessions, not in a committee room in St. Paul. We will help people by investing $48 million for the needs of our farmers and $100 million for broadband development to connect Minnesotans in every corner of the state. This bill will help people.”
Some highlights of the omnibus budget bill, SF 1955, include:
- $100 million in fiscal year 2024 and 2025 to expand broadband access throughout the state.
- $14 million in fiscal year 2024 for a grain indemnity fund to protect Minnesota farmers.
- $2 million in soil health equipment grants to help farmers make their farmland more resilient to extreme weather events, retain topsoil, build organic matter, and promote water quality.
- $1 million in fiscal year 2024-2025 to support emerging farmers with farm down payment assistance.
- $944,000 in investments to support livestock processing.
- $800,000 in fiscal year 2024-2025 and $400,000 in fiscal year 2026-2027 to provide services for beginning and emerging farmers.
The omnibus bill passed on the floor with 58 “yes” votes and seven “no” votes. The bill will head to conference committee, where the House and Senate will negotiate a final budget bill.
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