U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith announced that the Senate approved $1 million in funding to expand the University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostics Lab testing capacity in Willmar, as part of the 2026 appropriations legislation. This legislation now goes to the House of Representatives for a vote.
“Preventing avian flu is critically important for farmers in Minnesota and for the stability of the food supply in our whole county. That’s why I fought for this funding that will improve the ability to stop the spread of avian flu and other animal diseases,” said Senator Klobuchar.
“I hear from farmers all the time about the financial stress that avian flu outbreaks put on farm families and the economy. Animal disease outbreaks can unnecessarily disrupt trade and hurt our exporting ability,” said Senator Smith. “This funding would make a huge difference in our ability to stop avian flu in its tracks and protect our farmers and animals.”
The funding would be used to address avian flu, a top issue in Minnesota and nationally, and prevent its spread by purchasing additional PCR testing devices for avian flu and other zoonotic diseases. The project will enable faster results and reduced wait times, while also upgrading the data and results management system.
This funding was included in the Senate appropriations bill for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies. For these funds to be delivered, the project will still need to be included in the final appropriations bill passed by the House as well and signed into law.
Senators Klobuchar and Smith have been actively involved in securing this federal funding for projects benefiting communities across the state through a process called “Congressionally Directed Spending” (CDS). During the CDS process, Senators Klobuchar and Smith have considered project proposals and advocated for funding in close coordination with leaders from across the state.
