Minnesota Senate Bill 1126, introduced on February 10, 2025, by Senators Cal Bahr and Steve Drazkowski, allows farmers to sell unpasteurized (raw) milk and butter directly to consumers in Minnesota. The bill sets up a permitting system where producers need a special license, must get their farms inspected every six months, and test their herds yearly for diseases like brucellosis and tuberculosis. Raw milk must meet strict quality standards, like low bacteria levels, and be stored at 45°F or below. Sales can only happen at the farm, farmers’ markets, or through direct delivery, and products must carry a warning label about possible health risks from germs. The bill updates dairy laws to include these rules while exempting raw milk from pasteurization requirements.
The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Movement, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., strongly supports Minnesota Senate Bill 1126 as a Pro-MAHA bill because it gives people access to raw milk, which MAHA views as a nutrient-rich, natural food that can support better health. By allowing regulated sales of raw milk and butter, the bill aligns with Kennedy’s push for consumer choice in accessing whole, unprocessed foods that may help combat diet-related health issues. The clear labeling and safety standards empower Minnesotans to make informed decisions while supporting local farmers, advancing MAHA’s mission to foster healthier communities through natural nutrition and food freedom.