An Act to Improve Access to Grant Funding for the Maine Farms for the Future Program
Sponsored By: Laurie Osher (Democratic)
Signed by Governor
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Up to $10,000 for farm planning
If your farm is selected, the department pays for approved outside experts to help build your business plan. It pays up to $10,000. The services package must be assembled within 18 months of selection. Payment only covers services the department approves.
Farm grants tied to land protection
Grants can cover up to $45,000 or 25% of your plan’s investments, whichever is less. You must use the money to carry out the approved business plan. Before funds are released, you must have an agricultural conservation agreement or sign a 7‑year farmland protection agreement. If you farm on a long‑term lease, the department may allow an exception. You can end the agreement by repaying the funds you received.
Exception to 2-year farm rule
The department may let newer farms apply even without two years of commercial production in Maine. This expands access for some start‑ups. The law does not set dates or limits for these exceptions.
Sponsors & Cosponsors
Sponsor
Laurie Osher
Democratic • House
Cosponsors
Ambureen Rana
Democratic • House
Gary Friedmann
Democratic • House
James White
Republican • House
Paul Flynn
Republican • House
Rachel Talbot Ross
Democratic • Senate
Randall Hall
Republican • House
Stacy F. Brenner
Democratic • Senate
William Pluecker
Independent • House
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
Actions Timeline
Signed by Governor, ACTPUB Chapter 254
6/10/2025PASSED TO BE ENACTED, in concurrence.
6/3/2025SenatePASSED TO BE ENACTED. Sent for concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.
6/3/2025HouseReport READ and ACCEPTED, in concurrence.READ ONCE.Committee Amendment "A" (H-349) READ and ADOPTED, in concurrence.Under suspension of the Rules, READ A SECOND TIME and PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY Committee Amendment "A" (H-349), in concurrence.Ordered sent down forthwith.
6/2/2025SenateCONSENT CALENDAR - FIRST DAYUnder suspension of the rules CONSENT CALENDAR - SECOND DAY.The Bill was PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-349).Sent for concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.
6/2/2025HouseThe Bill was REFERRED to the Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY in concurrence
5/6/2025SenateCommittee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry suggested and ordered printed. The Bill was REFERRED to the Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY.Sent for concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.
5/6/2025House
Bill Text
Amendment C-A (H-349), adopted by House & Senate
Enacted
Introduced
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