We did it! On May 12, 2021 Governor Scott signed H.218 into law. The new law, Act 22, expands raw milk sales for tier two producers to other farms’ farmstands and CSAs in Vermont, and will go into effect on July 1st, 2021.
Congratulations, Everyone! Passing this bill was an uphill battle every single step of the way. Farmers leaders have laid the groundwork on this effort for the past twelve years, and it is thanks to this history, the diligent testimony of producers, and outpouring of support from consumers that got us here. Although this bill only directly effects tier two producers, we do believe that our work this legislative session has successfully elevated the importance of raw milk producers as an integral part of the agricultural landscape and Vermont's dairy community. We will continue work on this issue to support producers of all scales through grassroots organizing and potential future legislative initiatives as directed by farmer leaders.
We'd like to extend a special thank you to Rep. Heather Surprenant, lead sponsor and overall champion on this bill, for her tireless work on this issue, as well as Senator Pollina, who was instrumental in ushering this bill through the Senate.
Please consider thanking Rep Surprenant, Senator Pollina, and other members of the House and Senate Ag Cmtes for their work on this bill.
All House Ag Cmte Members:
Chairwoman Carolyn Partridge
Rep. Graham
Rep. O’Brien
Rep. Bock
Rep Norris
Rep Strong
Rep Pearl
Rep Surprenant
All Senate Ag Cmte Members:
Sen. Starr, Chair
Sen. Pearson
Sen. Collamore
Sen. Parent
Sen. Pollina
What’s in Act 22, the new RAW MILK LAW:
Tier two raw milk producers would be able to sell raw milk at other farm’s farmstands and CSAs within the state of Vermont (the 30 mile limit was removed)
The requirement to verbally inform each customer of the need to refrigerate milk is removed
The CSA or Farmstand selling the milk will maintain the required transaction records and customer contact records required by existing law. Farmstand and CSA owners will transfer this information to the raw milk producer within one week.
Milk must remain below 40 degree Fahrenheit at all times
The milk producer must notify VAAFM of any CSA or farmstand locations their milk is being sold. These locations will be subject to inspection by VAAFM.
The farmstand or CSA where milk is sold must display the 8.5x11 warning sign: “Unpasteurized (Raw) Milk. Keep Refrigerated. Consuming raw unpasteurized milk may cause illness, particularly in children, seniors, persons with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.”
All labeling and other requirements of the law remain the same
The cmte added language to the statute to clarify the existing requirement that rabies vaccines, tuberculosis, and brucellosis tests must be conducted by a licensed veterinarian
These changes go into effect July 1, 2021
Thank you so much. This is your victory and you all inspire us everyday. Stay tuned for what's next!