June 27, 2025
MADISON, Wis. – Today, Wisconsin legislators introduced LRB-3414, a bill to establish a $30 million Agricultural Purchase Program (APP) within the Department of Agriculture, Trade and and Consumer Protection (DATCP). This timely legislation aims to create a crucial buffer for Wisconsin farmers against economic losses from trade disruptions and bolster food security for vulnerable families across the state.
As we celebrate National Dairy Month, the USDA quietly delayed and redacted its May 2025 outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade report. The report is vital for farmers predicting
future economic conditions.
“At a time when Wisconsin’s farmers and their families are facing unprecedented
economic uncertainty, our state cannot afford to stick its head in the sand and pretend
that it’s business as usual for our $116 billion agricultural industry,” said Senator Brad
Pfaff (D-Onalaska).
The APP would offer grants to local organizations and food distributors like food
pantries. It enables them to purchase food grown or made in Wisconsin. This program
serves a dual purpose: providing demand for local food producers and reducing costs
for Wisconsin families.
This community support is especially vital given recent federal actions. The U.S. House
Budget Reconciliation bill may put 90,000 Wisconsinites at risk of losing access to
federal food assistance. This further underscores the urgent need for state-level
interventions.
“We must act now to provide critical support to Wisconsin’s essential agricultural sector
and ensure food security for our most vulnerable families,” added Representative Jenna
Jacobson (D-Oregon).
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