WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and U.S. Senator Susan Collins, R-Maine, introduced the Fair Milk Pricing for Farmers Act.

The bill would require manufacturers to report dairy processing costs every 2 years, which would help dairy farmers make sure that their prices accurately reflect the costs of production.

“New York dairy farmers deserve to be paid a fair price for their milk, and they need a milk pricing system that they can count on,” Gillibrand said. “Requiring manufacturers to report dairy processing costs on a biennial basis will give dairy producers, processors, and cooperatives the data they need to ensure that their prices accurately reflect the costs of production. After successfully championing dairy pricing reforms in the last Congress, I look forward to supporting New York’s dairy industry by passing this vital bipartisan bill.”

Representatives Nick Langworthy, R-23, and Joe Morelle, D-N.Y., introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. The bill is endorsed by the New York Farm Bureau, National Milk Producers Federation, Northeast Dairy Farmers Cooperatives, and International Dairy Foods Association.

“Creating stability in the dairy market is one of the most important things we can do to protect dairy farmers and ensure that Americans have access to affordable, nutritious dairy products,” Langworthy said. “New York is one of the top producing dairy states in the nation, and the 23rd Congressional District is home to many multigenerational dairy farms who are already struggling to keep their operations going. This legislation requires the USDA to stay up to date with market allowances and ensure fair milk pricing that truly reflects the costs our dairy processors are facing. I’m proud to partner with Senator Gillibrand and my colleagues in the House on this important legislation to protect our dairy industry.”