Statement from Commissioner Patrick Hooker

ALBANY, NY (12/17/2009)(readMedia)-- "USDA's announcement this morning of the implementation of the Dairy Economic Loss Assistance Program is an early Christmas present for our dairy farmers who have been struggling with low milk prices for the past 18 months. Governor Paterson led the effort that sought this assistance on behalf of the northeast governors, which includes the distribution of $290 million to dairy farmers across the country.

"I want to thank our members of Congress for acting on the Governor's request and to commend USDA Secretary Vilsack for responding with the timely and swift appropriation of these funds. These funds could not have been announced at a more critical time for this industry.

"While we are extremely grateful for this needed assistance and it will be welcomed relief for producers throughout the State, we recognize that there is more work to be done in order to ensure price adequacy in the future. Therefore, we will continue to seek long-term solutions that will help improve milk prices, ensuring that our dairy producers can remain productive and financially viable here in New York State."