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Raw Milk Bill Support - Come show your support!!!!

argoatproducers

The bill seeks to allow farmers to sell raw milk outside their farms, potentially benefiting small dairy goat producers. Supporters are encouraged to testify in favor of the bill.


House Bill 1048 aims to expand the opportunities for farmers to sell raw milk directly to consumers by allowing sales beyond their farms. Currently, many states restrict raw milk sales to on-farm transactions, meaning consumers must physically visit a farm to purchase it. This bill proposes to legalize the sale of raw milk in other venues, such as:

  • Farmers markets

  • Delivery services

  • Other direct-to-consumer settings


Potential Benefits:

  1. For Farmers:

    • Expands market reach, especially for small dairy producers like goat farmers.

    • Increases revenue by enabling them to sell in urban or community marketplaces.

  2. For Consumers:

    • Greater accessibility to raw milk, especially for those who cannot travel to farms.

    • More options to buy locally sourced dairy products.




    "As a small dairy goat farmer, I know firsthand how this bill would give us the opportunity to reach customers in nearby towns who have requested our products but can’t travel to the farm." Amanda Goodwin - Goodwin Family Farms



Supporting House Bill 1048 is important because it provides significant benefits to small farmers, consumers, and local communities while addressing unnecessary restrictions on the sale of raw milk. Here’s why this bill deserves support:


1. Empowers Small Farmers

  • Market Expansion: Small-scale dairy farmers, particularly goat farmers, often operate on slim profit margins. This bill allows them to sell their raw milk products at farmers markets or directly deliver to consumers, opening up new revenue streams.

  • Leveling the Playing Field: Larger agricultural businesses dominate traditional retail markets. This bill helps small farms compete by giving them greater market access.

  • Supports Family Farms: Many family-owned farms rely on diversified income sources. The ability to sell raw milk off the farm helps ensure their sustainability.


2. Meets Consumer Demand

  • Convenience: Under current laws, consumers must travel to farms to purchase raw milk. This is often inconvenient or inaccessible for urban residents. By allowing off-farm sales, the bill gives consumers easier access to the products they want.

  • Freedom of Choice: Consumers should have the right to purchase fresh, raw milk from trusted local sources, especially when they believe in its nutritional and health benefits.


3. Strengthens Local Economies

  • Farmers Markets: Allowing raw milk sales at farmers markets drives foot traffic to these venues and encourages spending on local goods.

  • Local Impact: The economic boost from small-scale farming helps keep money within Arkansas communities instead of going to out-of-state corporate entities.

  • Job Creation: Expanding market opportunities for farms can lead to new jobs in production, transportation, and sales.


4. Follows Proven Models

  • Success in Other States: States like Missouri, Texas, and South Carolina already allow off-farm raw milk sales with no adverse effects. These states have demonstrated that such sales can be safely managed while benefiting farmers and consumers.

  • Safe Practices: Farmers already adhere to strict hygiene and handling standards for raw milk, ensuring product quality and safety for consumers.


5. Encourages Transparency and Trust

  • Farmer-Consumer Relationships: This bill allows farmers to connect directly with consumers in public spaces, promoting trust and transparency in the food system.

  • Education: Off-farm sales give farmers a platform to educate consumers about the benefits of raw milk and proper handling practices.


6. Supports Agricultural Heritage

  • Arkansas has a rich tradition of farming, and dairy production is a vital part of this legacy. This bill protects and promotes the agricultural way of life, encouraging more families to continue or start small-scale farming.


7. Promotes Sustainability

  • Small-Scale Farming Practices: Many small dairy farmers prioritize sustainability, humane animal care, and environmental stewardship. Expanding their markets ensures these values can continue to thrive.

  • Less Food Waste: Increased sales opportunities mean farmers can sell their surplus milk instead of wasting it.


By supporting this bill, you’re helping ensure a fairer, more sustainable future for Arkansas farmers and giving consumers greater access to fresh, local, and high-quality dairy products.



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