TodayGabig co-sponsors bill supporting raw milk
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Article RatingControversial Newville raw milk farmer Mark Nolt has apparently inspired his state representative to stand up for his fledgling business.
State Rep. Will Gabig, R-199, has co-sponsored a bill that would allow permitted farmers to sell any product made from unpasteurized milk, including butter, soft cheeses, ice cream and yogurt.
Farmers with a permit are currently allowed to sell only raw hard cheeses and milk.
Nolt has twice had his stockpile of raw products seized by officials from the state Department of Agriculture, seizures he says have devastated his family’s source of income.
He had refused a permit because it would still not allow him to sell unpasteurized products besides milk and hard cheese.
The Newville farmer was summoned to a Mt. Holly Springs court May 5 to pay fines for the illegal sales, an appearance that led about 75 supporters to protest the court’s action.
“Recently, there has been a great deal of controversy surrounding the sale of raw milk and raw milk products and the permits required to do so in Pennsylvania,” Gabig said in a statement. “I am working with Representative (Bryan) Cutler,” who authored the legislation, “and the Department of Agriculture to streamline this process.”
Nolt’s case has been a flash point for a larger debate about the legality and safety of raw milk sales across the country.
Advocates say raw milk sales are a flourishing business that supplies small farmers needed income. They also contend that it is not only safe, but healthier than pasteurized milk.
Nolt has also argued that he has a constitutional right to sell his products regardless of state laws.
Agriculture officials counter that regardless of safety, the sale of unpasteurized soft cheeses, yogurt and other products are illegal.
And according to the FDA, no raw product, even legal ones, should be considered safe.
Gabig emphasized farmers should abide by the current law until a new one is passed.
“I recognize that public demand for raw milk products will require some changes in our laws as they currently exist,” he said. “However, citizens have the responsibility to comply with the current laws until we can put those changes in place.”
