2023 House Resolution 116

Whereas, Michigan’s dairy industry is one of the largest agricultural industries in our state with an annual economic impact of $24.36 billion. Our state’s dairy farmers and processors play an important role in feeding Michiganders and people across the nation; and

Whereas, Michigan has 914 permitted dairy farms of all sizes in our state, with farmers who take great pride in producing safe, nutritious, and delicious products for Michiganders; and

Whereas, There are 430,000 dairy cows, which produced nearly twelve billion pounds of milk in 2022, ranking Michigan sixth in the nation for milk production; and

Whereas, Michigan ranks first in milk production per cow among all states in the United States with an average of 27,430 pounds produced per cow in 2022; and

Whereas, Michigan’s dairy industry generates 111,016 jobs directly and indirectly, both on and off the farm; and

Whereas, Michigan dairy businesses have a range of technologies, from large dairy processors with automated ‘robotic’ milking systems to smaller on-farm artisanal cheese makers. Dairy processing in Michigan supports farm families and communities across the state and keeps healthy, nutritious dairy products affordable for all residents; and

Whereas, Dairy products, including milk, cheese, sour cream, ice cream, and more, are both delicious and nutritious. Milk alone provides 22% of the calcium, 40% of the vitamin D and 10% of the potassium in the American diet. Research shows that healthy eating styles, including low-fat and fat-free dairy foods, are linked to a reduced risk of some of the most prevalent chronic diseases in the U.S., as well as improved bone health; and

Whereas, National Dairy Month is traditionally celebrated in June to encourage Americans to reduce the risks of osteoporosis, high blood pressure, obesity, and colon cancer through consumption of dairy products and help parents and caregivers teach children the importance of healthy eating habits, good nutrition, and physical activity, and how dairy fits into a well-balanced, healthy meal plan; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare June 2023 as Dairy Month in the state of Michigan.