Bill > HF1503

This bill establishes a program to provide grants to poultry producers in Minnesota to help prevent the spread of avian influenza from wild birds to domestic poultry. The Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture may award grants to eligible producers who raise poultry within the state, with a potential annual cap on grant funding. To qualify, producers must document a 20% cost-share for prevention activities, which can be reduced by up to $2,000 to cover time and labor costs. Eligible prevention measures include technologies like lasers, lighting systems, visual deterrents (such as decoys), and sound systems or air cannons. Grant recipients must make a good faith effort to prevent avian influenza spread, keep proper expense documentation, report annually on the effectiveness of their prevention methods, and allow follow-up evaluations by the commissioner. The bill also appropriates an unspecified amount of money from the general fund for these grants in fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with the program becoming effective immediately after enactment. The goal is to support poultry producers in protecting their flocks from avian influenza, which can be devastating to the poultry industry.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1503&ssn=0&y=2025