IL HR0117

Urges the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Commerce to increase exportation of Illinois dairy products to other nations.

Notes Illinois has over 84,000 dairy cows and produced 1.748 billion pounds of milk in 2019, ranking dairy as the 7th highest agricultural export category at $232 million in 2019.

Highlights dairy exports nationally have quadrupled since 2000 to nearly $5 billion in 2016, with top markets in Mexico ($1.2 billion), Southeast Asia ($671 million), Canada ($632 million), China ($384 million), and South America ($280 million).

Recognizes dairy products provide important nutrients including calcium, potassium, vitamins D and A, protein, and phosphorus, and are associated with improved bone health and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.

Directs copies of the resolution be delivered to the Illinois Governor, Illinois Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and U.S. Department of Commerce.