# Interstate Milk Freedom Act of 2024

This bill would allow raw (unpasteurized) milk and raw milk products to be shipped across state lines without federal interference, as long as they meet certain conditions. Currently, the federal government generally prohibits the interstate sale of raw milk for safety reasons, though individual states can allow raw milk sales within their own borders. This bill would prevent federal agencies from stopping the transport of raw milk between states that both permit it.

The bill only applies when four specific conditions are met: the milk must come from a state that allows raw milk sales, it must be packaged for direct consumer use (not for further processing), it must comply with the originating state's labeling and packaging rules, and it must be heading to another state that also allows raw milk distribution. So if you live in a state that permits raw milk sales and want to buy raw milk from a neighboring state that also allows it, the federal government couldn't block that transaction under this law. The bill doesn't override state laws—each state can still ban raw milk sales within its own borders if it chooses.

The practical effect is that raw milk could potentially become more available and affordable in states that allow it, since producers could sell across state lines. However, this is controversial because raw milk can carry harmful bacteria like E. coli and Listeria that pasteurization kills. Public health officials worry this could increase foodborne illness outbreaks, while raw milk advocates argue consumers should have the choice and that proper handling can make it safe. The bill includes "cowshare" arrangements, where consumers partially own dairy animals and receive milk shares, as a legal way to access raw milk across state lines.

Interstate Milk Freedom Act of 2024

Massie, Thomas

Interstate Milk Freedom Act of 2024 This bill prohibits federal regulation of the interstate traffic of unpasteurized milk or milk products packaged for direct human consumption under specified circumstances.Specifically, the prohibition applies if such products (1) would be considered in violation of federal law solely because they are unpasteurized; (2) are allowed by the state of origin to be distributed for direct human consumption by any means; (3) are produced, packaged, and moved in compliance with the laws of such state; and (4) are moved from the state of origin with the intent to transport them to another state that allows the distribution of such products for direct human consumption.