Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to enhance Minnesota's agriculture sector by providing financial support to develop markets for continuous-living cover crops. These crops are beneficial for soil health and environmental sustainability.

Main Provisions

• The bill appropriates funds from the state's general fund for the fiscal year 2026 to support the program dedicated to the development of markets for continuous-living cover crops.
• The Commissioner of Agriculture is responsible for overseeing this program and using the allocated funds to achieve its goals.
• The bill mandates the Commissioner of Agriculture to report on the program's financial allocation and accomplishments. These reports are due by February 1, 2026, and February 1, 2027, to relevant legislative committees.

Significant Changes

• The bill includes an allowance for the Commissioner of Agriculture to use up to 6.5 percent of the funds for administrative purposes, deviating from the typical restriction under Minnesota Statutes section 16B.98, subdivision 14.
• The funding is described as a one-time allocation and is available until June 30, 2028.

Relevant Terms

continuous-living cover crops, appropriation, Commissioner of Agriculture, general fund, agricultural markets, environmental sustainability, soil health, administrative costs, legislative report, Minnesota statutes.