Gov. Mills signs Sen. Brenner bill to improve grant process for farmers

AUGUSTA — Gov. Janet T. Mills has signed into law a bill from Sen. Stacy Brenner, D-Scarborough, to streamline the grant funding process, especially the allocation of emergency funds, for Maine farmers.

LD 782, “An Act to Support Statewide Economic Opportunities Through Strategic Investments of Property and Funds, Including Emergency Relief Funds,” will transfer grant disbursement authority from the Department of Administrative and Financial Services to the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.

“Across the state, farms are facing more barriers to remain viable. As a farmer myself, I know first-hand the challenges that they face,” said Sen. Brenner. “This legislation will ensure that farmers have access to necessary grant funding. It is imperative that we protect farms in our state as they are a vital part of our food system. I’m truly grateful to both my colleagues in the Legislature and the Governor for their support.”

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry offers several grant programs to assist farmers. Currently, the Department of Administrative and Financial Services administers these grants, including the Agricultural Development Grant Program and the Maine Farms for the Future Program. This legislation will provide more opportunities for farmers to access these grants. Both programs aim to promote research and development in the agricultural industry by investing in Maine farms and farmers. These investments work to increase the vitality of this heritage industry in the long term. 

LD 782 will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die.

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