Ohio Raw Milk Bill Moves Ahead in Committee Hearing

By Andi Anderson

An Ohio bill related to raw milk has moved forward after receiving its first hearing in the House Agriculture Committee. Lawmakers accepted an amended substitute version of the proposal, which means future discussions will focus on the updated bill.

The measure could bring major changes to how raw milk is sold and regulated in the state.

At present, Ohio law does not allow the sale of raw milk to the final, or ultimate, consumer. However, people may still drink raw milk from animals they own.

Because of this, herd share agreements have become common in the state.

These agreements allow a person to buy partial ownership in a milk-producing animal and receive milk for personal use. The bill would officially define “herd-share agreement” as “an agreement in which a person acquires an undivided interest in a milk-producing mammal with the owner of such a mammal that includes an arrangement under which the person receives raw milk for personal use not to be sold or distributed for profit.”

If passed, the bill would legalize the sale of raw milk and raw milk products throughretailers who register each year with the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

It defines “raw milk” as “unpasteurized milk from a cow, goat, or sheep,” and “raw milk products” as “all products derived from raw milk, including cream, butter, yogurt, cheese” and other products approved by the department.

The bill would also require labels on products sold to consumers. Each label must state: “RAW MILK: This product has not been pasteurized and may contain harmful bacteria.” In addition, consumers would need to sign a liability waiver “acknowled[ing] the risks of consuming raw milk or raw milk products.” Sellers would have to keep these waivers for at least two years.

Sales would only be allowed on the farm where the products are made or at a registered farm market. The bill also includes strict testing rules. Animals would need regular testing for brucellosis and tuberculosis, while milk and water would need monthly lab testing. Farms would also face routine inspections.

Finally, the proposal would create the Ohio Quality Milk Production Service Program. This program would support milk safety, animal health, research, testing, and education across the state.

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