MADISON, WI – The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) is proud to present its fourth annual Cheese Champion Awards to 11 federal and state lawmakers in recognition of their efforts to support and advance the dairy processing industry.
“Dairy processors are the backbone of Wisconsin’s economy and a vital resource to our state,” said WCMA Senior Director of Programs & Policy Rebekah Sweeney. “Over the years, they’ve built strong, productive relationships with Wisconsin lawmakers, resulting in sound policies that continue to grow and strengthen our dairy industry. We’re grateful for the leadership and ongoing support offered by this year’s Cheese Champions, and we’re pleased to honor them for their work.”
Among the federal lawmakers being honored is U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), a long-time champion of the dairy industry. Baldwin first established funding for the Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiatives in the 2018 Farm Bill, which provides technical assistance and grants to dairy farmers and processors. Since then, she has remained a steadfast advocate for the program, most recently introducing the Dairy Business Innovation Act of 2025, which proposes increasing annual funding to $36 million. Senator Baldwin is also a lead author of the DAIRY PRIDE Act, which prevents imitation dairy products from being labeled as milk or cheese. Sen. Baldwin has also consistently supported rural infrastructure investments, including funding for roads and broadband, to strengthen Wisconsin’s rural communities and economy.
Congressman Derrick Van Orden (R-WI 03) is receiving his award in recognition of his support for America’s dairy industry. Thanks in part to his leadership, federal funding for DBI was restored earlier this year, and Rep. Van Orden continues to champion the program in Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations negotiations. His commitment ensures dairy farmers and processors have the tools they need to innovate, grow, and share their world-class products with consumers everywhere. Congressman Van Orden also co-authored the House version of the DAIRY PRIDE Act, taking a leading role in the fight for accuracy and transparency in food labeling.
At the state level, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers is being honored for his continued commitment to strengthening Wisconsin’s dairy industry. In his 2025–2027 state budget, Evers directed significant investments into critical programs supporting Wisconsin dairy businesses, such as the Agricultural Road Improvement Program (ARIP), the Dairy Processor Grant program, the Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports (WIAE), and the Dairy Innovation Hub. His support for these initiatives has helped ensure that dairy manufacturers of all sizes can access new global markets, invest in advanced technology and equipment, and benefit from improved roads and infrastructure. Additionally, Gov. Evers created and continues to champion Wisconsin’s Food Security Initiative, which strengthens access to nutritious dairy products for families across the state.
WCMA further commends eight state lawmakers for their strong support for the dairy processing industry: Senators Jesse James (R-Thorp), Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green), Eric Wimberger (R-Oconto), and Brad Pfaff (D-Onalaska), along with Representatives Tony Kurtz (R-Wonewoc), Todd Novak (R-Dodgeville), Travis Tranel (R-Cuba City), and Jenna Jacobson (D-Oregon).
These legislators have been instrumental in advancing dairy priorities in the state budget, serving as advocates for Wisconsin cheesemakers and champions of rural communities. The 2025 legislative session delivered major wins for the dairy sector, particularly in the 2025–2027 State Budget, thanks to their leadership. Landmark programs such as ARIP and WIAE received continued funding, ensuring farmers and processors can rely on safe, efficient transportation infrastructure to move milk and cheese to market, both domestically and internationally. Recognizing that smaller and mid-sized processors often lack the capital to purchase advanced equipment, our Cheese Champions also prioritized the Dairy Processor Grant Program, which allows operations to modernize facilities, improve efficiency, and stay competitive. These efforts are helping more cheesemakers innovate and grow right here in Wisconsin.
“WCMA is deeply grateful to our 2025 legislative Cheese Champions for their commitment to Wisconsin’s dairy industry,” said Rebekah Sweeney, WCMA Senior Director of Programs & Policy. “Thanks to their leadership, America’s Dairyland remains a global dairy leader, rural communities are stronger, and our industry can continue to drive economic success.”
WCMA serves as a strong voice for dairy processors, manufacturers, marketers, and industry suppliers on legislative and regulatory activity at the state and federal levels. More information on the Association’s advocacy efforts is available at WisCheeseMakers.org.
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