Meat + Poultry

By Rachael Oatman

WASHINGTON — The US Senate approved $1 million to go toward expanding the University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostics Lab testing capacity as part of the 2026 appropriations legislation.

With greater capacity, the diagnostics lab in Willmar, Minn., will be better equipped to address the pressing issue of avian influenza, as its impact is significant both statewide and nationally.

“Preventing avian flu is critically important for farmers in Minnesota and for the stability of the food supply in our whole county,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “That’s why I fought for this funding that will improve the ability to stop the spread of avian flu and other animal diseases.”

The funding will support the purchase of additional PCR testing devices for avian flu and other zoonotic diseases. The $1 million project will enable faster results and reduced wait times, while also upgrading the data and results management system.

“I hear from farmers all the time about the financial stress that avian flu outbreaks put on farm families and the economy,” said Senator Tina Smith. “Animal disease outbreaks can unnecessarily disrupt trade and hurt our exporting ability. This funding would make a huge difference in our ability to stop avian flu in its tracks and protect our farmers and animals."

The legislation still needs to be approved by the US House of Representatives and signed into law to take effect.