USDA’s Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing began Wednesday in Carmel, Indiana as dairy producers make their case for changes to the pricing program.

The industry expects five to seven weeks of testimony and discussion on proposals to modernize the FMMO system. Following USDA’s initial presentations, the hearing will then launch into discussions of specific issues placed within the scope of the hearing.

After the hearing’s conclusion, entities involved in the hearing then have a period of time to respond to the testimony, followed by a USDA draft decision, then more discussion, and ultimately a vote among dairy farmers on a final proposal, likely in the second half of 2024.

“Thanks to the tireless efforts of dairy farmers and their cooperatives, this industry is poised for progress as Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization is now in sight,” said National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern.