MADISON, Wis. (WTAQ) - Governor Scott Walker says he would sign a bill to let farmers sell raw milk – as long as it has safeguards to protect public health and the integrity of the dairy industry.
The Republican Walker made the comment Thursday, after several lawmakers said they would bring back a bill that was vetoed last year by former Governor Jim Doyle. Assembly Democrat Chris Danou of Trempealeau sponsored the original measure.
A task force is studying the health-related concerns. Its findings are due next month, and Danou says supporters will “hit the ground running” after that.
Senate Republican Glenn Grothman of West Bend says people should have the right to choose whether to drink unpasteurized milk directly from dairy farms.
Supporters say raw milk has natural health benefits. But the Wisconsin Farm Bureau says it will oppose the new bill. Spokesman Casey Langan says his members don’t want to see it move forward unless there’s a, “air tight resolution that would protect the dairy industry.”
The Farm Bureau says Wisconsin’s worldwide dairy reputation would be tarnished if just one person gets sick from drinking raw milk sold in the Badger State.
