WCMA Applauds Passage of AB 664 Expanding Student Access to Real Butter

The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) today applauded members of the Wisconsin State Assembly for its bipartisan passage of Assembly Bill 664, legislation that expands students’ access to real dairy butter in their schools and supports Wisconsin’s $52.8 billion dairy industry. 

  

Authored by Representative Todd Novak (R-Dodgeville) and championed in the Senate by Sen. Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green), AB 664 prohibits schools from serving margarine as a substitute for butter in public, private, and charter schools, except for when parents or caregivers request it. 

  

“Butter is made from cream – and sometimes, salt.  That’s it.  It’s a natural product that offers Vitamin A, important for vision and immune health, along with energy-providing, gut-healthy nutrients,” said Rebekah Sweeney, WCMA Senior Director of Programs & Policy. “Wisconsin’s dairy processors appreciate Rep. Novak’s work alongside Sen. Marklein to bring this proposal forward – and we thank all legislators who have demonstrated their support.” 

  

With Assembly passage complete, WCMA now urges members of the Wisconsin State Senate to take up AB 664 promptly and advance the bill to the Governor’s desk. Swift Senate approval will ensure continued support for Wisconsin dairy processors, farmers, and families. 

  

“Butter is not only a better option for children’s nutrition, but also a driver for our state’s economy. Wisconsin is one of the top butter producers in the country, with thousands of Wisconsinites working to make one-quarter of our nation’s total production,” said Sweeney.  “This bill delivers a win-win.” 

  

AB 664 is one of many priorities for which WCMA is advocating as the Wisconsin State Legislature brings its session to a close.  To engage in WCMA advocacy, visit WisCheeseMakers.org.