IDFA Applauds House Vote to End Government Shutdown

Fund USDA and FDA through FY2026, and Extend 2018 Farm Bill

Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today applauded passage of a legislative package that will reopen the federal government, fund the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through fiscal year 2026, and extend many 2018 Farm Bill programs until September 30, 2026:

“Today’s vote to reopen the federal government brings much-needed certainty to our nation’s food system—supporting farmers, food manufacturers, and the millions of families who rely on federal nutrition programs to access nutritious dairy products. IDFA applauds Congress for funding USDA and FDA through fiscal year 2026, which will help the dairy industry to continue to bring wholesome, nutritious dairy products from American dairy farmers to more Americans of all ages, and help us meet our commitments to make America healthy again. This funding includes $4 million for USDA’s SNAP Healthy Fluid Milk Incentive Projects, which help tens of thousands of SNAP families purchase milk every month. These investments in HFMI are delivering results. SNAP participants are choosing HFMI-incentivized milk when given the opportunity, improving nutrition outcomes and supporting American dairy farmers and processors in communities across the country.

“IDFA also commends Congress for restoring the full milk benefit for moms and young children participating in the WIC program. Milk and dairy foods provide thirteen essential nutrients critical to growth, development, and lifelong health. IDFA thanks the many WIC moms who raised their voices to help restore these important nutrition benefits for millions of women, infants and children nationwide.

“Today’s vote also critically extends the 2018 Farm Bill through September 2026. IDFA stands ready to work with Congress on a new, five-year Farm Bill that improves dairy programs and expands the SNAP dairy incentive to reach more families and include the full suite of nutritious dairy products.”