Dairy Industry Starts New Year Celebrating Big Wins in Washington

Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for the dairy sector, with new regulations and policies aimed at supporting producers and encouraging milk consumption.

Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to provide an update.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Bjerga discussed the “Whole Milk for Healthy Kids” Act, which was officially signed into law by President Trump last week, explaining the path forward and the expected timeline for implementation. He also addressed the recently released dietary guidelines and the benefits they offer for dairy farmers and milk consumption.

Bjerga concluded with his outlook for the dairy economy in 2026, highlighting positive developments and opportunities for producers.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, adding a decade of experience in the digital side of broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Wed, 12/17/25 – 7:30 PM ET | 6:30 PM CT | 5:30 PM MT | 4:30 PM PT
A massive rail merger could significantly impact North American agriculture and trade flows.
Urea and phosphate see the biggest price relief from tariff exemptions, but nitrogen markets remain tight, and spring demand will still dictate pricing momentum.
Earlier this year, the BLM moved to rescind the Public Lands Rule from the Biden Administration. Interior Secretary Doug Bergum says overturning the rule will protect the American way of life and give rural communities a stronger voice.
Lower turkey and wheat prices helped ease Thanksgiving costs, but underlying farm-sector pressures remain significant.
Hunter Biram, an extension economist with the University of Arkansas, is tracking Mississippi River water levels as grain shippers shift their focus to transportation following the wrap-up of fall harvest.