Wisconsin lawmakers are seeking help for dairy from the Department of Agriculture.
Last week, a coalition of Wisconsin lawmakers, led by Senate Democrat Tammy Baldwin, wrote Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, seeking immediate action for Wisconsin dairy farmers and dairy processing businesses.
Wisconsin dairy farmers have been forced to dispose of thousands of gallons of fresh milk a day as the demand for dairy products used in foodservice has rapidly switched to almost entirely at-home consumption.
Specifically, the lawmakers ask Secretary Perdue to move cheese and dairy products from Wisconsin plants to consumers using several tools that Congress has provided USDA to help respond to times of crisis.
Additionally, they seek funding for states to help them resolve supply chain disruptions and keep agricultural products and food moving to reach consumers when and where they need it.
A third measure requested, the Wisconsin lawmakers are asking Secretary Perdue to Reopen enrollment for the Dairy Margin Coverage program and make payments retroactive to the beginning of the year.
