Assistance for dairy farmers after drought?

Next Thursday, February 23 the New Hampshire Senate will vote on a bill to provide financial assistance to dairy farmers. 

Dairy farmers in New Hampshire have faced much higher feed costs during the drought. At the same time, the federal government regulates milk prices, which has prevented New Hampshire farmers from raising prices to cover costs.

In 2016, financial hardship during the drought forced roughly 16% of dairy farms in New Hampshire to close. 

Bill supporters argue that dairy farming is essential to New Hampshire’s health, economy, and character. They argue that New Hampshire dairy farms will close if New Hampshire does not following the example of neighboring states and provide emergency financial relief.

Bill opponents argue that the state should not bailout any private industry. Other opponents argue that rather than pass a stand-alone bill, the Legislature should consider any spending as part of the two-year budget being drafted this spring.

Do you support a dairy farmer assistance program? Share your opinion in the comments.