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.

Related Stories
Ag leaders say President Donald Trump’s State of the Union is unlikely to spark major agriculture headlines, but ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade policy remain key concerns, as does the debate around glyphosate and the status of the next Farm Bill.
Higher output keeps milk supplies ample, reinforcing expectations for softer dairy prices even as feed costs remain favorable.
RFD Farm Legal & Tax expert Roger McEowen shares guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, its impact on renewable energy and agriculture, and what producers should know moving forward.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
For the broader agricultural industry, a railroad antitrust case in Kansas could lead to the dismantling of legacy regulatory shields, creating a more fluid, market-driven transportation grid that prioritizes moving crops efficiently over protecting historic rail monopolies.
Agriculture avoided major disruptions, but trade uncertainty remains elevated.

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:

National FFA Annual Fund Manager Kimberly Coveney encouraged everyone watching to join the effort today and help celebrate Give FFA Day while investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Tennessee FFA officers join us in the RFD-TV Studios to showcase student leadership and inspire support for agricultural education on Give FFA Day 2026.
National FFA President Trey Myers shares the significance of Give FFA Day, its role in supporting student growth, and how communities can join the celebration to make a difference for future agricultural leaders.
The Ranger Road Fire is fully contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres. Ranchers face significant cattle and fence losses, with recovery efforts underway.
National FFA Organization CEO Scott Stump shares the importance of Give FFA Day, how contributions support students, and why today is an opportunity for everyone to help invest in the future of agriculture.
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital officially becomes Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, marking a new era of compassionate, world-class pediatric care in Tennessee.