A Press Conference At The State Capitol

 It was time well spent at the Minnesota State Capitol for Dairy Day. John and I attended last year also. It is a day planned by Minnesota Milk Producers Organization giving us an organized opportunity to visit with our State Senators and Representatives to discuss issues and concerns affecting the dairy community.

Janet, State Senator Karla Bigham, John

 With over half of farmers being between 50-70 years of age, we discussed the possibility of financial grants to assist beginning farmers. We spoke about the commitment farmers have to sustainability and our efforts to address climate change.

Janet, Representative Tony Jurgens, John

We expressed concern over the high health insurance premiums that continue to be a large hurdle for small businesses like dairy farms. We shared about the importance of quality roads and bridges in greater Minnesota to get our products to market, and lastly we spoke about the need for reliable Broadband internet needed for some of our machinery and animal care.

  

State Senator Karla Bigham

We also took the next step towards a discussion that began last year when we attended Dairy Day at the Capitol. Last year, we visited State Senator Bigham and shared an idea John read about that would help dairy farmers and also promote healthy habits. One year later, we stood together at a press conference to announce the introduction of legislation that would make milk the default beverage for children's meals in Minnesota. The press conference video clip (below) is a great explanation from Senator Bigham explanation of what this bill is not.

Also speaking in support of this bill were Representative Jeff Brand, and spokespersons for Blue Cross Blue Shield, Youth and Families Determined to Succeed, Twin Cities Medical Society, Healthy Kids Coalition and Minnesota Farmers Union. 

Janet speaking at the Press Conference

I also got the opportunity to represent Minnesota's dairy farmers at the press conference. Here are the words I shared-

"Good afternoon, my name is Janet Bremer, and I farm with my husband John in Hastings. Milk is our official drink, and we are proud to be among the 2,500 dairy farmers producing it every single day. We are so thankful to Senator Bigham for taking an idea and turning it into a bill, and today are excited to see the support from the many health advocacy groups and agriculture groups joining us here at the Dairy Day at the Capitol to further explain this bill. Minnesota's dairy industry has a $9 billion impact on the state, and this bill could help lay the groundwork for revitalizing the dairy industry. Fluid milk sales have slipped in recent years, partially due to children being given the option of sugary drinks. Obviously, these drinks are sweeter and in the short term the body may think it is getting a treat, but in the long term, it can lead to diabetes and other health issues. Milk has nine essential vitamins and minerals. We hope others join us in support of this bill, which does not take away choices, but helps nudge people in the right direction of a healthier future for their kids, and simultaneously benefits Minnesota dairy farms." 

So what's next? Later this week I will be testifying at the committee hearing. I will be joined by several health advocacy groups also, I am excited by this process, and more importantly excited that our dairy voice is being heard. Also that a discussion is happening about the importance of the dairy industry, and the health benefits of Minnesota's official state drink!