This Minnesota House bill (H.F. No. 1540) proposes the establishment of a Thoroughbred Racehorse Residency Aftercare and Benevolence Pilot Program under the Department of Agriculture. The program aims to support the state's agricultural and equine industries while providing assistance to racetrack stable workers and their communities.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

1. Establishment of the Program:

   • The Commissioner of Agriculture will administer the program to enhance agriculture, equine industries, mental health, and education for racetrack communities.

2. Minnesota Resident Thoroughbred Registry (Starting in 2025):

   • A voluntary registry will be maintained for thoroughbred racehorses that reside at a Minnesota racetrack for at least 120 days annually.
   • Owners applying for registration must pay a $100 nonrefundable application fee.
   • Registration does not expire once granted.

3. Residency Awards (In 2026–2027):

   • A $750 award will be given to the registered owner of a qualifying racehorse for each day the horse starts a race at a licensed Minnesota racetrack.
   • Racetracks will issue the awards and be fully reimbursed by the Commissioner of Agriculture by November 15 each year.

4. Grants for Repurposing Retired Racehorses (Starting in 2026):

   • Grants will be awarded to accredited organizations or Minnesota-based colleges/universities for retraining or repurposing retired thoroughbreds.

5. Mental Health and Education Grants (Starting in 2026):

   • Grants will support mental health and educational programs for stable workers and local racetrack communities.

6. Funding and Appropriation:

   • A Thoroughbred Racehorse Pilot Program Account will be established in the agricultural fund.
   • Funds will be allocated as follows:
     • $500,000 annually for racehorse repurposing grants.
     • $500,000 annually for mental health and education grants.
   • $7 million will be transferred once from the general fund in fiscal year 2026.

7. Expiration:

   • The program is set to expire on July 1, 2028.

Summary:

This bill creates a temporary pilot program to provide financial incentives for thoroughbred racehorse owners, support retired racehorse aftercare, and improve mental health and education services for racetrack workers and their communities. The program will be funded through a $7 million one-time transfer from the state's general fund and will operate until July 1, 2028.