Joco Today

U.S. Senators Roger Marshall and Amy Klobuchar have introduced the Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program Act of 2025. This bipartisan legislation aims to provide Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants with increased access to dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. Senator Marshall emphasized the health benefits of dairy, saying, “As a doctor who practiced medicine for more than 25 years, I cannot stress enough the importance of consuming dairy products, which serve as excellent sources of critical nutrients and contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system.”

The bill is also backed in the House by Representatives Jim Costa and Nick Langworthy. Senator Klobuchar expressed the dual benefits of the bill: “Making sure more Americans have better access to foods like yogurt and cheese while supporting our dairy farmers is a win-win.”

Additional co-sponsors of the legislation include Senators Tina Smith, Mike Crapo, and Kirsten Gillibrand. The initiative has received endorsements from multiple organizations, such as the International Dairy Foods Association and the National Milk Producers Federation.

Michael Dykes of the International Dairy Foods Association stated, “A SNAP dairy incentive program is a reliable investment in improving our nation’s health and reducing hunger and chronic food insecurity among low-income Americans.” Similarly, Gregg Doud from the National Milk Producers Federation mentioned the importance of dairy for a healthy diet and the disparity in Americans meeting recommended dairy intake.

FMI – The Food Industry Association and the National Grocers Association have also voiced their support for the bill. Jennifer Hatcher of FMI remarked, “By building on existing milk-purchase incentives, this bill empowers retailers to help low-income households incorporate a variety of dairy options.” Stephanie Johnson from the National Grocers Association noted the ease with which grocers can provide these products thanks to the proposed incentives.

Sheryl Meshke from the Associated Milk Producers Inc. expressed gratitude for the legislation, acknowledging its potential to enhance dairy access for SNAP participants.