WCMA Advocates for Full Funding of Dairy Business Innovation Amid New Legislation

Rebekah Sweeney, WCMA’s Senior Director of Programs & Policy, emphasized the necessity for continued legislative support to foster innovation within the dairy industry. This call to action aligns with the proposals in the Senate version of the bill, urging the House Agriculture Committee to adopt similar amendments.

Since its inception in the 2018 Farm Bill under the guidance of U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, DBII has successfully allocated $165 million to enhance the capabilities of farmers and processors, promoting the development of resilient, stable dairy businesses. The current demand within the sector supports the appeal for increased funding, with a proposed annual support of $36 million to sustain and strengthen dairy businesses into the future.

Adding weight to this initiative, a public letter co-authored by the WCMA and Organic Valley, and endorsed by over 200 dairy business leaders from 31 states, has been dispatched to Congressional leaders to ensure DBII is fully funded in 2025 and for the duration of the new Farm Bill. The House bill markups are scheduled for next week, with the WCMA encouraging more dairy businesses to participate in this advocacy effort. Details for engagement are available on the WisCheeseMakers.org website.