Virginia House Bill HB828

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22
• Report Pass: 1/19/22
• Engrossed: 1/24/22
• Refer: 1/26/22
• Report Pass: 2/1/22
• Report Pass: 2/2/22
• Enrolled: 2/7/22
• Chaptered: 2/14/22
• Passed: 2/14/22

Caption

Dairy Producer Margin Coverage Premium Assistance Program; expands eligibility for participation.

Impact

Should HB828 be enacted, it would amend the Code of Virginia to reflect changes in the Dairy Producer Margin Coverage Premium Assistance Program. This adjustment would enhance support for Virginia's dairy producers, contingent upon their adherence to environmental and resource management practices. The emphasis on certifications, such as having a resource management plan or an approved nutrient management plan, is aimed at ensuring that assistance is provided to those who actively engage in sustainable farming practices.

Summary

House Bill 828 establishes the Dairy Producer Margin Coverage Premium Assistance Program in Virginia, designed to assist dairy producers participating in the federal coverage program. The bill aims to expand eligibility for participation by outlining specific criteria that dairy producers must meet in order to benefit from premium reimbursements. The program is intended to alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by dairy farmers, particularly with regard to the costs associated with federal premium payments at the first tier coverage level.

Sentiment

The reception of HB828 among legislators and stakeholders appears to be generally positive, with a consensus that supporting dairy producers is critical for the agricultural economy of Virginia. The sentiment surrounding the bill reflects a recognition of the challenges faced by the dairy industry, including fluctuating market prices and operational costs, which makes the assistance program timely and necessary. The proposal is designed to bolster the local agricultural economy by providing necessary financial support to eligible producers.

Contention

While there is broad support for the intent of HB828, some discussions indicated concerns regarding the criteria for eligibility. The requirement for producers to have certified plans in management practices may be viewed as a barrier to some smaller or less established producers who may struggle to meet the certification standards. There is potential contention regarding how the reimbursement process will be implemented, particularly in terms of fund availability and the fairness of the application process, which could influence the overall effectiveness of the program.