The Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act will allow the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and dairy producers to consider proposals to adjust the federal milk pricing system, in turn reducing costs at the grocery store for consumers.
“We’re all feeling the effects of high prices, and volatility in the dairy market means uncertainty at the supermarket,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation that will result in lower milk prices at the grocery store, easing the financial burden on families at a time when they need it most. New York State has a proud history of dairy production, and my bill will help continue that legacy for farmers struggling under the current pricing system while supporting everyday consumers.”
New York is the fourth largest dairy producing state, and the complicated structure of their pricing system along with increased competition from plant-based products is leaving our dairy farmers without adequate pay. This has resulted in the loss of almost 40,000 dairy herds since 2003 and increased costs for consumers.
The Dairy Pricing Opportunity act corrects this by requiring the USDA to hold public hearings and receive input from dairy producers on how best to repair the faulty pre-pandemic federal pricing policies and lower the price of milk.
This legislation has been endorsed by the American Farm Bureau Federation, New York Farm Bureau, American Dairy Coalition, and the Northeast Dairy Producers Association.
