Farm down payment assistance program modified.

HF 3548 modifies Minnesota's farm down payment assistance program to help new farmers purchase land. It sets eligibility limits: applicants must earn under $250,000 annually from farming, have no prior land ownership, and commit to owning/farming the land for five years (with a 20% penalty for violations). Grants cover up to $20,000 for 2-75 acres or $40,000 for larger parcels, requiring $8,000 in matching funds. The program prioritizes specialty crop producers (like fruits, vegetables, or industrial hemp) and allocates $1.25 million annually for these grants, effective July 2026.