New formula for dairy board size advanced

A bill intended to prevent a decrease in the size of the Nebraska Dairy Industry Development Board was advanced from general file Feb. 8.

Under current statute, membership on the board is proportional to the number of milk producers in the state. The formula in place designates one board member for every 40 milk production units.

LB70, introduced by Ogallala Sen. Ken Schilz, would prevent a decrease in the board’s membership below its current level. If the formula results in less than seven members, the governor would appoint a member or members from nominees submitted by the board.

“As we see numbers of producers diminishing in the state, it is a cause for concern,” Schilz said. “Dairy can be a huge part of economic development in rural areas in Nebraska. This will make sure that funds that can be used on dairy promotion can move us forward.”

An amendment, brought by the committee and adopted 35-0, added an emergency clause and made other technical changes.

Senators advanced the bill to select file on a 40-0 vote.