Department of Agriculture budget trims, Marbidco loan shifts and a $60M‑plus IT modernization ask

The subcommittee heard a detailed Department of Agriculture budget analysis and agency testimony about program priorities and long‑term needs.

Budget highlights: Analyst Andrew Gray said the MDA operating budget decreases about $9.6 million (≈7%) to a fiscal 2025 level and described a $6 million reallocation to MARBITCO core loan programs after prior Next Generation farmland program shifts. Gray said some one‑time general funds supported fair boards and spay/neuter programs and that the Rural Maryland Council received $300,000 for rural health work.

MARBITCO and lending: MARBITCO’s executive director said the organization made $9 million in core loans last year and expects to average about $6 million in annual lending going forward, projecting self‑sustainability by roughly 2030 but acknowledging the next‑generation farmer program will need new infusions by FY27.

IT modernization and equipment needs: Gray noted an MDA digitization and modernization project cost shown as approximately $60,400,000 over the project period (funded in the Department of Information Technology’s budget). MDA leadership explained that the total covers many program migrations and said specialized lab and metrology equipment replacement (including a $400,000 road‑scale truck and other lab instrumentation) is needed to maintain food and consumer safety functions.

Nuisance insects and animal health: DLS recommended reviewing the planned reduction in nuisance insect funding given other available consent‑decree funds for midges; MDA emphasized public‑health and quality‑of‑life impacts from black flies and midges, and discussed federal/state responses to a recent highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak.

Next steps: DLS made several recommendations on turnover adjustments, fee calibration for weights and measures, and management‑for‑results reporting on value‑added agriculture. MDA said it will provide additional follow‑up materials and work with the committee on program priorities and grant pursuit.