Creates and provides for the Dairy Stabilization Study Commission. (8/1/18)
Impact
The commission created by SB 560 will consist of a diverse membership, including dairy farmers, processors, legislators, and consumer advocates. This structure is designed to ensure that various stakeholders, who are critical to the dairy supply chain, have a voice in discussions about regulations and pricing. The commission will analyze the retail pricing structure of milk products in Louisiana, compare state programs regarding milk pricing, and review existing laws to determine what changes might be necessary to bolster the dairy industry.
Summary
Senate Bill 560 establishes the Dairy Stabilization Study Commission in Louisiana. This commission is tasked with studying the deficiencies of the dairy industry, particularly in relation to milk pricing, and to make recommendations for improvements. The bill recognizes the decline of the dairy sector in the state as alarming, emphasizing its significance to both the economy and the health of Louisiana's residents. It aims to protect consumers from excessive prices and inadequate milk supplies, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a robust dairy industry in the state.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment around SB 560 appears to be supportive among stakeholders who recognize the urgency of responding to the dairy industry's challenges. The creation of the commission is viewed as a proactive measure to address concerns regarding milk pricing and supply. However, there could also be potential criticism concerning the commission's effectiveness and accountability in terms of delivering actionable recommendations to the legislature.
Contention
While the bill is largely positioned as a supportive measure for the dairy industry, potential points of contention could surface during the commission's work. Stakeholders may disagree on what constitutes 'excessive pricing' and the best approaches to stabilize the industry. Additionally, debates may arise over the regulatory recommendations that the commission ultimately considers, especially if they involve significant changes to existing laws or practices that dairy stakeholders have relied upon.
Authorizes the retail sale of milk and milk products at less than cost and removes the authority of the Dairy Stabilization Board and the commissioner of agriculture to regulate the retail price of milk. (8/1/18)
Provides for the merger of the Feed, Fertilizer, and Agricultural Liming Commission and the Seed Commission and creates the Agricultural Chemistry and Seed Commission. (gov sig)
Creates the Louisiana Emergency Beetle Commission to study and recommend laws or actions to address the impact of the infestation of beetles and other pests on pine and other trees and the safety of persons and utilities
Requests the Department of Education to establish a group to study the current state of agriculture education in elementary and secondary schools. (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Requests the Senate and House committees on agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, and rural development to meet and function as a joint committee to study and make recommendations regarding the appropriate level of support to further the missions, goals, and priorities of the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center and the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.
Urges and requests the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, in collaboration with the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center and Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center, to study the feasibility of promoting the growth, production, and use of organic produce in this state