Legislative representation

DFA carries the issues and concerns of its dairy farmer members to state capitols and Washington D.C. where legislative policy affects both the present and future of the U.S. dairy industry. Together, we have the strength to make our voices heard. Because when 18,000 DFA dairy farmers speak through a single, unified voice—legislators listen.

Membership in DFA also provides dairy producers with an opportunity to be personally involved in legislative issues through DFA’s Dairy Education Political Action Committee (DEPAC).

DEPAC is your voice, your ear and your strength in Washington.

The U.S. Government plays a role in almost every aspect of dairy farming—from approval of medications and milk inspection to marketing and environmental controls. As an individual dairy farmer, it is almost impossible to influence the role of government on your business. But by participating in DFA DEPAC, you will join other dairy farmers who have similar goals. Together, your chances of influencing the outcome of proposed legislation or regulations are greatly increased.

DEPAC allows DFA members to stay up to date on important issues and communicate with the political leaders who can make a difference. DEPAC funds help elect candidates for Congress whose records, actions and public statements most directly reflect the interests of DFA dairy producers. DEPAC makes information on issues that affect DFA dairy producers readily available to candidates for federal office, Members of Congress and their staffs.

DEPAC also provides information to DFA members and employees on legislative and regulatory issues considered and acted upon by legislators in our nation’s capitol. DEPAC allows DFA to monitor the attitudes of federally elected public officials on dairy issues—information is communicated to DFA members through publications, myDFA, and regular meetings so that appropriate actions may be taken.