Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association Supports Bill Increasing State's Ag Exports

Friday, October 22nd, 2021 -- 12:01 PM

(Wisconsin AG Connection) The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association applauded members of the legislature's Joint Finance Committee as they voted to advance legislation to increase the state's agricultural exports, including dairy.

According to the Wisconsin Ag Connection, Senate Bill 325/Assembly Bill 314, authored by Sen. Joan Ballweg of Markesan and Rep. Tony Kurtz from Wonewoc, creates a new five-year initiative led by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection in partnership with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, to increase the export of the state's dairy, meat and other agricultural products by 25 percent.

The bill specifies that $2.5 million, or half the total funds appropriated, will be used to increase the export sales of milk, cheese, yogurt, whey, and other dairy products.

"We believe the potential for growth of Wisconsin's dairy and cheese exports is limitless," said WCMA Director John Umhoefer. "We have the high-quality products, the skilled teams, and the right market conditions; all that's needed is this added support. This legislation will provide a welcome boost to help dairy processors expand their customer base globally and strengthen our state's leading industry."

Discussions on investing in dairy exporting endeavors began in early 2020 when Gov. Tony Evers proposed increased support as part of his call for a special legislative session on rural issues, and again as part of his 2021 budget.

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