SB 22-209

Senate Bill 22-209, also known as the Meat Processing Grant and Loan Assistance Act, provides funding for an employee or contractor hired by the Colorado Department of Agriculture to help small meat processors and aspiring entrepreneurs apply for grants and loans. These funds can be used to start new businesses, expand existing ones, or support operations in the meat processing industry. The program will end on July 1, 2024. With $62,885 allocated from the state budget, this initiative aims to boost the small meat processing sector and assist agricultural producers seeking financial aid for their projects. Since it has been signed into law, the bill is now active and its provisions are being implemented.

Official Summary

The act instructs the commissioner of agriculture to hire an employee or engage a contractor to provide grant and loan application assistance to small meat processors or people attempting to start a small meat processor business. The grant or loan must be used to start, expand, or support a small meat processor business. The employee or contractor may also assist agricultural producers and agricultural businesses in applying for and obtaining grants. The grant and loan application assistance program repeals on July 1, 2024. To implement the act, $62,885 is appropriated to the department of agriculture for use by the agricultural markets division. (Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

Votes