Representative Thomas Massie announced on Mar. 10 the introduction of H.R. 7880, known as the Interstate Milk Freedom Act, which aims to prohibit federal interference with the interstate traffic of unpasteurized milk and milk products packaged for direct human consumption. Representative Chellie Pingree is co-leading the bipartisan legislation.
The proposed bill addresses regulations that currently restrict small farmers from selling raw milk across state lines, a rule that supporters say impacts consumer choice and local agriculture. The legislation would prevent federal agencies or courts from taking action against the movement of raw milk between states where its sale is legal.
“Executive branch agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), do not and should not have the power to shut down trade between peaceful farmers and willing consumers,” said Rep. Massie. “It is Congress’s job to legislate. The Interstate Milk Freedom Act would make it easier for families to buy the milk of their choice by reversing the criminalization of specific dairy farmers.”
Rep. Pingree said, “So many people across the country want to make sure their food is fresh and local—including fruits, vegetables, and even their milk. Raw milk is currently the only food banned for interstate commerce—an onerous regulation that hurts small farmers for selling milk straight from their cows to the consumer.”
According to Ballotpedia, Thomas Massie has represented Kentucky’s 4th district in Congress since replacing Geoff Davis in 2012. He previously served in state government roles including as Lewis County Judge Executive.
Massie was born in Huntington, West Virginia in 1971 and now lives in Garrison at age 52, according to his official biography. He graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1993.
The Interstate Milk Freedom Act has been introduced before both as an amendment to previous farm bills and as standalone legislation over several sessions of Congress.
