Legislative Update: DAIRI "Fix" Bill Hits Unexpected Hurdle
It is a high-stakes "deadline week" at the Minnesota Legislature, with policy bills requiring committee approval by Friday to remain viable. While the schedule is packed, the primary focus for dairy leaders this week was the House Ways & Means Committee.
DAIRI Bill Update: Minnesota Milk is disappointed to report that HF 3508 (Nelson), the DAIRI "fix" bill, failed to advance out of the House Ways & Means Committee on Monday in a 14-13 vote (15 votes or 51% are required in the 67-67 House).
This outcome was unexpected, as the bill previously received:
Unanimous support in all prior committees.
A 66-0 bipartisan vote in the full Senate.
Supportive testimony from DFL Ag Commissioner Thom Petersen.
The bill is a technical fix that costs no additional state money; it simply allows roughly 30 new farms (those starting mid-2022 or later) to access previously appropriated funds for the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) incentive program. As it stands, only farms with production for the full 2022 year remain eligible. We are continuing to evaluate next steps to ensure these new producers receive the support intended by the 2023 law.
Other Activity This Week
Rotational Grazing:The House Agriculture Committee is hearing HF 4388 to establish a pilot program.
Farmer-Lender Mediation:HF 3692 is under consideration to extend the sunset of this vital program.
Senate Ag Policy:The Senate is reviewing a policy bill covering veterinary licensing, noxious weed laws, and MDA authorities.
The Legislature will begin its Easter/Passover recess after business concludes this Friday.
Dairy market report
Source: Ever.Ag
We partner with Ever.Ag to provide highlights of weekly dairy market activities, along with a summary of key market indicators.
February US milk output came in below expectations at 18.3 billion pounds, up 2.9% year-over-year. After USDA revised January’s cow numbers higher, the US herd grew 35,000 head from the last report and +211,000 head versus last year. The US milking herd surpassed 9.6 million head for the first time in 30 years.
National Ag Day celebrates 250 Years American agriculture progress
Source: Farm Progress
Today marks the 53rd annual National Ag Day, but this year's celebration carries special significance as it coincides with 250 years of American agricultural progress. The event, organized by the Agriculture Council of America, brings together leaders from across the agricultural, food, and fiber sectors under this year's theme: "Agriculture. Together We Grow."
New Dairy Business Innovation Alliance grant cycle now open
Source: Dairy Business Innovation Alliance
The next round of Dairy Business Innovation Alliance Dairy Business Builder Grants is open. Targeted at small- to medium-sized farmers and processors, the program supports projects that diversify on-farm activities, create value-added products, or enhance dairy by-products or export programs. Applicants may request up to $150,000 in reimbursable grant funding. Apply by April 22.
Save the date for Dairy Strong on Jan. 13–14, 2027, at Lambeau Field! We’re introducing streamlined programming and a new Dairy Strong Tailgate event to kick things off. Make plans now to join us!
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