Bill > HB0451

This bill amends existing Utah law to expand the uses and funding of the Agriculture Resource Development Fund, a revolving loan fund designed to support agricultural projects. Key provisions include the addition of a "small farm assistance program" which allows the commission to provide loans and grants to "small farmers" (individuals owning or leasing a single active farm no larger than 20 acres) for acquiring or expanding farms, purchasing equipment, or covering operational costs, with loans not exceeding 10 years and subject to specific interest rate considerations. The bill also clarifies that loans for disaster relief programs can constitute up to 10% of the fund's appropriated money, unless funds are specifically appropriated for disaster relief, and allows for borrowing from the Agricultural Water Optimization Account for disaster relief loans. Additionally, the bill appropriates $20,000,000 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, to the Agriculture Resource Development Fund, with the intention that at least half be used for grants to small farmers for down payments or equipment/operational expenses, and the remainder for loans to small farmers, with the bill taking effect on May 6, 2026.

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0451.html