HF 3862

as introduced - 93rd Legislature (2023 - 2024) Posted on 02/19/2024 05:01pm

A bill for an act
relating to agriculture; appropriating money for regional farm-to-institution
coordinators.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1. new text begin APPROPRIATION; FARM-TO-INSTITUTION COORDINATORS.
new text end

new text begin $800,000 in fiscal year 2025 is appropriated from the general fund to the commissioner
of agriculture to contract with individuals and organizations to serve as regional
farm-to-institution coordinators. Regional farm-to-institution coordinators shall:
new text end

new text begin (1) provide community-based regional marketing assistance to farmers seeking to
participate in farm-to-institution markets, including schools, early childhood education and
care providers, hospitals, restaurants, and additional potential markets;
new text end

new text begin (2) facilitate relationships and collaboration for local food system development; and
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new text begin (3) provide technical assistance to producers, buyers, and other relevant stakeholders.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner may use up to 6.5 percent of this appropriation to administer the contracts
in this section.
new text end