SF 3165 Summary

• Reduces appropriations to agriculture agencies by $1.217 million in fiscal year 2010 and $1.484 million in 2011, affecting programs including protection services, ethanol producer payments, dairy development grants, and agricultural marketing initiatives.

• Establishes registration requirements for tree care and tree trimming companies operating in Minnesota, with basic registration costing $25 annually and professional registration costing $250 annually, both expiring December 31 each year.

• Appropriates $1.935 million in fiscal year 2011 for veterans affairs, including $1.36 million for operational expenses of a 21-bed addition at Fergus Falls Veterans Home and $475,000 for start-up expenses of an adult daycare facility at Minneapolis Veterans Home.

• Transfers $405,000 from the agricultural fund to the general fund by July 15, 2010, and $629,000 by July 15, 2011, plus $6,000 from the miscellaneous special revenue fund to the general fund in both years.

• Amends statutes regarding veterans services, allowing the Department of Veterans Affairs to apply for and accept federal funding and clarifying uses of the "Support Our Troops" account for grants to veterans organizations and outreach programs.