Dairy Hopes to Capitalize on Momentum as ‘Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act’ Heads to the House

The National Milk Producers Federation will launch a new advocacy campaign to secure a final vote, urging House lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is now headed to the House of Representatives after clearing the Senate. The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) is ramping up efforts to secure a final vote, launching a new advocacy campaign urging lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.

Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to share the latest on the campaign and discuss what the legislation could mean for dairy producers and school nutrition programs. In his interview with RFD-TV News, Bjerga explained that the campaign is focused on mobilizing dairy supporters, school nutrition advocates, and parents to contact their representatives and voice support for bringing whole milk back to school cafeterias. He said the effort highlights both the nutritional benefits of whole milk and the strong bipartisan backing the bill has already received.

When asked about the timeline, Bjerga expressed cautious optimism that the House could move quickly once members return to Washington. Given the broad coalition behind the effort, he said there is real momentum to pass and sign the measure into law in the near future.

With Thanksgiving just days away, Bjerga also reflected on what the holiday season means for dairy producers. He noted that demand for dairy products — from holiday baking to festive meals — typically rises at the end of the year. Despite ongoing challenges in the dairy sector, Bjerga said the overall outlook remains steady, with producers hopeful that supportive policies and strong consumer demand will carry into the new year.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Todd Davis, Chief Economist with the Indiana Farm Bureau, shares a snapshot of his state’s harvest conditions and insights from producers.
Market analyst Kevin Huddleston said news of trade deals could rebound cotton prices in late fall, and producers need to be ready to strike deals.
Texas A&M 4-H Director Montza Williams joins for an update on the expected timeline for the program’s new facility and all the associated benefits.
From tinkering with machines to building projects from scratch, students in the National FFA Organization develop skills to help shape future careers.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined us to break down the latest data on Canadian farmland values and share insights on how it impacts producers.
Lewis Williamson, from HTS Commodities, joined us to share insights on the farm economy from producers in the field.