CO SB209

Establishes a grant and loan application assistance program by hiring one employee or contractor to help small meat processors apply for and obtain federal grants and loans from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other entities.

Defines "small meat processor" as a business employing 500 or fewer individuals that slaughters, dresses, cuts, prepares, trims, wraps, or packages meat or meat products.

Authorizes the hired employee or contractor to assist agricultural producers and agricultural businesses in applying for USDA grants after completing primary duties for meat processors.

Appropriates $62,885 to the Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Markets Division for the 2022-23 fiscal year, based on adding 0.9 FTE staff.

Repeals the statute effective July 1, 2024, making this a temporary program.