Should NH cover dairy farm losses?

19 of 120 New Hampshire dairy farms closed this year.

This year's drought has been particularly hard on dairy farmers, who have not been able to grow as much food for their cows. Milk prices are also very low.

Rep. Bob Haefner, chair of the House Environment and Agriculture Committee, is advocating for an "immediate bailout from the state and/or feds of $4 million." 

In an editorial, Haefner cited numerous benefits of local dairy farmers, such as fresh local milk and scenic open spaces. The Granite State Dairy Promotion estimates that the New Hampshire dairy industry "impacts state and local economies with more than $141 million in total output, 3717 jobs and more than $19 million in labor income." 

Not everyone is a fan of milk subsidies, however.

Opponents argue that the need for local milk is not dire enough to justify millions in taxpayer subsidies. They argue that by propping up dairy farms, subsidies discourage efficiency and innovation. 

Do you think New Hampshire should provide monetary aid to dairy farms? Let us know in the comments.