Fifth-Generation Dairy FarmHER Watches ‘Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act’ Cross the Finish Line

Dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, her experience at the signing, and what’s next for her family and farm.

CLOVIS, N.M. (RFD NEWS) — A major milestone for dairy farmers became official last week as President Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law, marking a policy shift supporters say benefits both dairy farm families and children who rely on school meals for nutrition.

Fifth-generation dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share her experience attending the signing in the Oval Office.

In her interview with RFD NEWS, Vander Dussen reflected on what it was like to stand alongside President Trump during the bill’s signing and described the significance of the moment for dairy producers nationwide. She also shared how meaningful the experience was for her family, as her daughters were also present.

Vander Dussen discussed why the passage of the legislation is seen as a win for dairy farmers and for students who depend on school lunch programs. She also spoke about her opportunity to visit with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and shared her key takeaways from that interaction.

Beyond policy, Vander Dussen highlighted her work with Discover Ag, a platform that offers a fresh perspective on agriculture by blending farming, trending headlines, and broader cultural conversations. She explained the mission behind the platform, what is ahead in 2026, and shared how things are going on her dairy operation.

Check Out Discover Ag’s episode of Dirt Diaries

Dirt Diaries EP #19: Digging in with Tara Vander Dussen and Natalie Kovarik of Discover Ag
Related Stories
Widespread drought and extreme weather leave producers managing limited resources
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, outlines potential risks for agriculture as negotiations continue between the two countries
Cooperatives may need changes to attract younger producers.
Farm legal expert Roger McEowen highlights the legal challenges surrounding stray voltage, a recent court decision, and what it means for agricultural producers.
Michael Cliver discusses his recent visit to the White House with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and the Trump Administration’s “Working Families Tax Cuts” impact on ranching families.
PLC and NCBA Chief Counsel Kaitlynn Glover reacts to the USDA’s new Grazing Action Plan, regulatory relief for ranchers, and the industry’s efforts to improve access to public lands.

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:

The cast of “Farmer Wants a Wife” joined us to share their stories and preview Season 4 of the series, which premieres April 21 on FOX.
Lane Howard and Adam Andrews with the National Corn Growers Association joined us in the studio discuss EPA’s approval of summer E15 sales, ongoing fuel market concerns, and the industry’s push for a long-term biofuels solution for farmers.
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation discusses how stewardship is driving efficiency, profitability, and competitiveness in the dairy industry.
Texas continues to play a critical role in the U.S. beef supply chain, with both cow-calf operations and feedlots contributing significantly to national production.
Farm Bureau officials say the findings underscore mounting pressure on producers heading into the 2026 growing season, with input costs continuing to outpace farm income.
Corey Rosenbusch with The Fertilizer Institute joined us to discuss supply chain disruptions and what farmers should watch as global tensions impact fertilizer markets.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the availability of over $275 million in grant funding in FY2026 for the specialty crop industry in the United States through three USDA programs.