June 9, 2023

Dairy Month in Wisconsin

Friend, 

June is Dairy Month. Wisconsin’s dairy farmers play a vital role in our state, and Wisconsin is consistently one of the largest dairy producers in the country. Last year, we produced 2.6 billion pounds of milk. Wisconsin agriculture contributes $104.8 billion to our state's economy. Annually, 435,700 jobs in Wisconsin are supported by Wisconsin agriculture. Our state is home to nearly 6,000 dairy farms. 

As many of you know, farmers have experienced uncertainty and challenges in recent years. Higher prices have created uncertainty for farmers. From inflation, weather, to crop blight. It hasn't been easy in recent months for our farmers. 

In order to bring down costs for farmers, we need to implement policies that will help bring down costs. One place in particular is through our energy policies. I'm focused on how we can adjust our energy policies to reduce the cost of energy and unleash American energy. By implementing an all of the above approach to energy, we can help to reduce costs for farmers. 

Last week I met with many friends and familiar faces at the Rock County Dairy Breakfast. At the breakfast, I had the opportunity to talk with farmers about some of the issues that farmers and the dairy industry face.

Wisconsin’s family farms, and farmers across the country, deserve our support. Unfortunately, we are seeing the U.S. Department of Agriculture create new rules adversely impacting this industry. Currently, the USDA is considering a rule that would continue to restrict milk options for kids at school. I oppose these efforts and recently cosponsored legislation called the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which would permit schools to offer flavored and unflavored milk options as part of the National School Lunch Program. 

I understand the importance of agriculture in Wisconsin and continue to pursue agricultural policies that will strengthen our farming and rural economies for future generations. This year, Congress will consider the Farm Bill reauthorization, legislation that is passed every five years to support America's farmers and agriculture. It is important we continue to support many of the important programs Wisconsin farmers rely on to help keep American families fed.

I look forward to seeing everyone at dairy breakfasts in Wisconsin this June. As always, do not hesitate to reach out with any opinions or concerns you would like to share. 

On Wisconsin,

Bryan Steil
Member of Congress

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