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Wisconsin’s rBST affidavit rule is a step closer to elimination

The Wisconsin rule requiring dairy farmers to have a signed and notarized affidavit saying they don’t use synthetic bovine growth hormone might be eliminated soon. Wisconsin is the only state that requires the annual affidavits.

The State Senate passed a bill Wednesday that would eliminate what dairy processors call time consuming and duplicative.  Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association President John Umhoefer says Wisconsin is the only state with the unnecessary rule, and that more than 90 percent of the state’s milk supply has been rBST-free for years.  Umhoefer says the current regulation puts Wisconsin farmers and processors at a competitive disadvantage.

The State Assembly is scheduled to vote on the same bill Thursday morning, and if passed, will go to Governor Tony Evers for his signature.