By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania dairy farmers get a boost as the Milk Board decides to maintain the over-order premium at $1 per hundredweight until December 31st, 2024. This premium is paid to farmers for milk produced, processed, and sold entirely within the state.
The decision comes after debate among industry groups. The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and Grange supported keeping the premium due to rising production costs and falling milk prices. However, some farmers argued the system is flawed.
While the premium increases the minimum retail price of milk in Pennsylvania, stores selling milk not produced in the state can keep the premium money. This has been a point of contention for some dairy farmers who believe they don't benefit fully from the system.
The Board acknowledges these concerns and is working with lawmakers and the Department of Agriculture to redesign the premium program. However, federal limitations on interstate commerce complicate efforts to create a fairer system for Pennsylvania dairy farmers.
Photo Credit: istock-fcafotodigital
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy