Senate Agriculture, Broadband, and Rural Development budget bill delivers critical support for Minnesota’s food and farm economy
ST. PAUL, Minn. — Today, the Minnesota Senate passed a bipartisan Agriculture budget bill that addresses critical challenges facing Minnesota’s agricultural economy. The bill, authored by Agriculture, Broadband, and Rural Development Chair Aric Putnam (DFL-St. Cloud), is a direct response to federal cuts under the Trump administration and aims to bolster food security, farm health, and preparedness against avian influenza.
“The increased budget allows us to meet the critical needs of our agricultural community at a time when farmers and food systems across the state are feeling the pain,” said Senator Putnam, Agriculture, Broadband, and Rural Development Chair. “From food security to mental health support and the fight against avian influenza, this bill directly addresses the challenges Minnesotans are facing right now. It’s a comprehensive investment in programs that will help our farmers stay healthy, resilient, and able to continue feeding our state.”
Since the Senate originally passed the bill, the agriculture budget target increased. This allowed for a greater investment in food security, public health, and farmer well-being. The final bill includes the creation of Minnesota’s own Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program in response to federal cuts, as well as expanded support for avian influenza response, mental health services, and local food systems.
Key provisions of the Agriculture budget include:
- Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program: Creation of a state-level program to replace the federal LFPA and support local farmers and food security efforts.
- Avian Influenza Response: Funding for turkey lasers, emergency response grants, and increased capacity for the Board of Animal Health to combat avian influenza.
- Farm to School Program Funding: $600,000 increase to ensure fresh, locally sourced meals in schools and child care settings.
- Farmer Mental Health and Safety: $250,000 for mental health outreach, support services, and farm safety grants to help farmers stay healthy and supported.
The Agriculture budget passed on a vote of 58-8 and will now move to Governor Walz to sign into law.
Vice Chair of the Higher Education Committee. He serves on the Jobs and Economic Development Committee and Taxes Committee.
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