This bill proposes the establishment of a Thoroughbred Racehorse Residency Aftercare and Benevolence Pilot Program in Minnesota to support the state's agricultural and equine industries while providing mental health and educational services for racetrack stable workers and their communities.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

1. Program Establishment:

   • The Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture will oversee the pilot program beginning in 2025.

2. Minnesota Resident Thoroughbred Registry:

   • A voluntary registry will be created for thoroughbred racehorses that have resided at a licensed Minnesota racetrack for at least 120 days in the previous year.
   • Owners must apply for registration by February 15 each year, pay a $100 nonrefundable fee, and prove the horse met the residency requirement.
   • Registration does not expire once granted.

3. Residency Awards (2026-2027):

   • $750 will be awarded to the owner of a registered thoroughbred horse each day the horse starts in a race.
   • Racetracks will issue these payments and be reimbursed by the state at the end of the racing season.

4. Repurposing Grants (Starting in 2026):

   • Grants will be awarded to organizations accredited by national thoroughbred organizations, the Minnesota Racing Commission, and Minnesota-based college and university equine programs.
   • These grants will be used to retrain or repurpose retired thoroughbred racehorses.

5. Mental Health and Education Grants (Starting in 2026):

   • Grants will be awarded to organizations providing mental health and educational services for racetrack stable workers and their local communities.

6. Funding and Appropriations:

   • A Thoroughbred Racehorse Pilot Program Account will be created in the Agricultural Fund.
   • Money in the account, including interest, will be used for grants and residency awards.
   • At least $500,000 per year will be allocated for:
     • Repurposing grants (for retired racehorses).
     • Mental health and education grants (for stable workers and local communities).
   • Application fees collected will fund the administration of the program.
   • A one-time transfer of $7,000,000 from the state’s general fund to the pilot program account will occur in fiscal year 2026.

7. Expiration:

   • The pilot program will expire on July 1, 2028.

This bill aims to support Minnesota’s equine industry, provide financial incentives for racehorse owners, promote aftercare for retired racehorses, and enhance the well-being of stable workers through mental health and education initiatives.