MN HF4071

Modifies appropriations for "Administration and Financial Assistance" under Laws 2023, chapter 43, reducing total funding from $16,618,000 to $14,287,000 for the biennium.

Allocates $1,000,000 annually for down payment assistance grants to beginning and emerging farmers under Minnesota Statutes, section 17.133, with unencumbered balances available through June 30, 2027.

Includes $1,950,000 annually to Second Harvest Heartland for milk purchases from Minnesota processors ($850,000 minimum), surplus commodity compensation, and protein product distribution to food shelves statewide.

Provides $750,000 annually to expand the Emerging Farmers Office and support services including grants, translation, and training for beginning and emerging farmers with a base of $1,000,000 starting fiscal year 2026.

Authorizes various one-time and ongoing grants to agricultural organizations including $300,000 for seed genetic diversity preservation, $260,000 for farm mental health counseling, and $275,000 for technical assistance to community development financial institutions serving small and emerging farmers.