MADISON, WI – Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) members today praised Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers’ efforts to invest in dairy innovation, agricultural exports, food security, and rural infrastructure; and to ensure transparency in food labeling.
“Wisconsin’s dairy industry is a $52.8 billion economic powerhouse – and it continues to grow, thanks in part to the vision and leadership of state policymakers,” said Rebekah Sweeney, WCMA Senior Director of Programs & Policy. “We appreciate Governor Evers’ commitment to the strength of our state’s dairy processors, and the safety and stability of the rural communities they serve.”
Evers’ proposal includes funding to support a new, full-time position to administer the Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports (WIAE), an effort launched in December 2021 to support dairy, crop, and meat sales overseas. Through consultative, technical, and marketing support, this five-year initiative has already moved the needle on Wisconsin agricultural exports, which are up 5.3% since 2021.
Evers is also proposing $1.2 million for the popular Dairy Processor Grant program administered by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. These targeted, competitive grants are awarded to dairy businesses each year to fund innovation and plant modernization projects.
Evers’ plan also invests in programs designed to bolster the state’s food supply chain, including:
· $30 million for the Food Security Initiative, started by Governor Evers in 2020 to support food banks and pantries in partnering with Wisconsin food processors;
· More than $768,000 to continue the successful Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program, a state-federal partnership that facilitates food procurement by distributors, food security organizations, and Tribal partners from local producers;
· $400,000 in funding for the Something Special from Wisconsin program, a trademark marketing program to promote the buying and selling of locally made products;
· $400,000 to create a new Farm to Fork Grant Program designed to connect businesses, universities, and hospitals to nearby food producers; and
· $600,000 annually for the Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin program, which works to reduce the marketing, distribution, and processing hurdles that producers may face in getting their products to local consumers;
The Governor’s budget further proposes a prohibition on advertising or labeling products as milk or dairy unless the product is made from a cow or another mammal’s milk. This action, which has long been supported by WCMA members, will ensure clarity for consumers in the marketplace and send a message that existing U.S. Food & Drug Administration regulations regarding product labeling should be enforced.
Evers also called for major investments in rural infrastructure, including road and bridge improvements and broadband expansion, and to address critical workforce needs, including affordable childcare, affordable housing and accessible vocational training.
“Governor Evers’ proposal prioritizes Wisconsin’s cornerstone dairy industry and rural communities, creating opportunities for dairy processors to recruit skilled workers and expand their businesses,” added Sweeney. “These strategic investments will bolster our state’s future for years to come.”
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