New York is awarding $21 million to over 100 dairy farms to modernize equipment, according to Spectrum News. The funding comes amid sharp criticism of a proposed bill that would block permits for large-scale dairy operations, raising concerns in rural communities.
While farms like Glory Days in Lowville will use the grants for vital upgrades, backlash to the bill proposed by downstate lawmakers has been fierce. Critics argue it threatens jobs and food production. State agriculture leaders, meanwhile, tout continued investment in major processors like Fairlife and Chobani.
Federal support may falter, though. A recent cut rescinded $22 million earmarked for Lowville’s Kraft-Heinz plant. Despite this, New York officials say they’ll keep backing the industry at the state level.
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