Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King joined 14 of their colleagues in introducing a bipartisan resolution recognizing June 2021 as “National Dairy Month.” The resolution highlights the important role dairy plays in a healthy diet and the exceptional work of dairy producers in being stewards of the land and livestock.

“Having been born and raised in Aroostook County, I know how essential the dairy industry is to our state’s economy and our way of life. Maine dairy farmers generate $570 million annually and support more than 4,000 jobs,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan resolution would recognize the important role dairy farmers play in strengthening our economy and providing high-quality and nutritious milks, yogurts, and cheeses to families.”

“Maine has a long tradition of producing high-quality, nutritious dairy products that are essential to the health of our economy and our citizens,” said Senator King. “National Dairy Month provides us with an opportunity to highlight the importance of dairy products to the well-being of the American public, and salute the hard work of our nation’s dedicated dairy farmers and producers.”

The U.S. dairy industry serves as a key driver in the national food system and supports the people of the United States both nutritionally and economically. According to the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, dairy products as well as certain fortified soy beverages have a nutritional composition that puts them ahead of curve in maintaining good health and reduced risk of chronic diseases throughout all stages of life. This resolution also highlights the economic impact of dairy producers in the United States, and encourages consumers to visit with dairy producers to gain a better understanding of the production process. It is estimated that the U.S. dairy industry supported 3.3 million jobs and $41.6 billion in direct wages to support workers and their families. 

In addition to Senators Collins and King, the resolution was co-sponsored by Senators Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tim Scott (R-SC), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), James Risch (R-ID), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Mike Braun (R-IN), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).

Click HERE to read the full resolution.

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In April, Senators Collins and King co-sponsored bipartisan legislation to combat the unfair practice of mislabeling non-dairy products using dairy names. The bill would require non-dairy products made from nuts, seeds, plants, and algae to no longer be mislabeled with dairy terms such as milk, yogurt or cheese.