Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to establish a new educational program in Minnesota to promote and develop skills in the production of plant-based foods. It targets higher education and technical education sectors to implement training programs.

Main Provisions

• Pilot Program Creation: The bill seeks to create a pilot program focused on training in plant-based food production. The program will be managed by the commissioner of higher education.
• Grants: Grants will be awarded to secondary career and technical education programs and institutions of higher education. These funds can be used to support various aspects of plant-based food education.
• Funding Usage: The grant money is intended for expenses such as purchasing equipment, renovating facilities for plant-based food production, and training faculty members to provide instruction.

Significant Changes

• The bill introduces new legislation under Minnesota Statutes chapter 136A by establishing a specific program dedicated to plant-based food production training.
• It also provides a one-time appropriation of $500,000 for the fiscal year 2026 to fund this initiative, which is available until June 30, 2027.

Relevant Terms

• Plant-based foods
• Higher education
• Technical education
• Grant
• Pilot program
• Training
• Equipment
• Facility renovations