WC Wisconsin News

House Agriculture Committee Members Congressman Derrick Van Orden and Congressman Salud Carbajal have introduced the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives Act. The proposed legislation seeks to authorize an additional $16 million annually for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives (DBII). This initiative supports dairy businesses in various aspects such as development, production, marketing, and distribution.

Congressman Van Orden emphasized the importance of this act for Wisconsin's agricultural economy, stating, "Wisconsin’s dairy farmers are the backbone of our state’s agricultural economy. The Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives Act gives our farmers the tools they need to remain competitive and successful and ensure their ability to continue feeding the world."

Rebekah Sweeney from the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association expressed appreciation for Van Orden's support, noting that "the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives strengthen farmers and processors, providing greater stability in our nation’s food supply chain." She highlighted the program's impact on Wisconsin's dairy industry.

Adam Warthesen of Organic Valley praised Representative Van Orden's efforts in supporting the American dairy industry through this legislation. He mentioned that many dairy processors nationwide have benefited from DBII grants, contributing to job creation and enhancing milk value chains.

Gregg Doud from the National Milk Producers Federation acknowledged Representatives Van Orden and Carbajal for their bipartisan leadership. He remarked on dairy's history of innovation and how this program aids researchers and industry partners in advancing these efforts.

The full text of the bill is available for those interested in further details.