Minnesota House approves new assistance for farmers, producers

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA — The Minnesota House of Representatives today approved a major piece of legislation that provides assistance for farmers who are facing economic hardship. Lawmakers also appropriated resources for grain storage safety grants in response to rising work-related accidents and deaths on the farm.

“This legislation will not fully address the needs of Minnesota’s farmers and producers during these challenging times, but it does provide vitally needed support and assistance,” said Rep. Poppe (DFL-Austin), chair of the Agriculture and Food Division, and the bill’s chief author.

The bill uses federal CARES Act dollars to invest in farmer mental health needs, including suicide prevention training and awareness of mental health resources. To enhance capacity for services and support to farmers for their economic well-being, it invests in essential services provided by the Department of Agriculture’s Farm Advocate program. The bill funds the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab equipment which is needed to respond to poultry and livestock diseases like HPAI and ASF.

The Minnesota Senate is expected to approve the bill. It is expected to be sent to Gov. Tim Walz before the 2020 session adjourns on May 18, 2020.