The bill, H.F. No. 1948, introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives, aims to establish the Headwaters Community Food and Water Economic Resiliency Program under the Department of Employment and Economic Development. The program is designed to support local and regional regenerative food systems to address food, water, and climate challenges sustainably.

Key Provisions:

1. Program Purpose

   • The goal is to create and maintain local regenerative food networks that ensure reliable food and water supplies while addressing climate resilience.

2. Methods of Implementation

   • Financial and technical support for urban and rural food producers engaged in organic and regenerative farming.
     
   • Investment in physical infrastructure, such as food storage facilities, composting systems, greenhouses, and water management systems.
     
   • Funding for operational infrastructure, including food production, preparation, storage, and distribution.
     
   • Support for food culture revival for Black, Indigenous, and communities of color.
     
   • Research funding to study local ecological knowledge and promote perennial landscapes.
     
   • Establishing a financial fund for training and employment opportunities in the food system.
     
   • Providing affordable healthcare for workers engaged in the food web.

3. Advisory Committee

   • An advisory committee will be formed with representatives from diverse backgrounds, including farmers, food hubs, restaurants, scientists, and public health officials.
   • Membership must include people from Black, Indigenous, and communities of color.
   • The committee will advise on program criteria, funding, applications, and accountability.

4. Funding & Appropriations

   • The bill appropriates state funds for the program in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund to the commissioner of employment and economic development.

Summary

This bill seeks to strengthen local food economies by investing in sustainable food production, distribution, and workforce development. It aims to improve food security, environmental resilience, and economic sustainability while promoting equity in food systems through direct support for historically marginalized communities.