“Dairy Day has become a successful event that draws a large crowd every year, it is a great opportunity to support the 6,200 dairy contributors that make up New York’s largest industry, providing a $2.4 billion revenue for our state,” said Reilich. “Dairy farmers are among the hardest workers in New York state, and the life of a dairy farmer includes long hours and intensive labor. I am proud to stand beside them and support them as they contribute to the greatness of the Empire State.”
This year's Dairy Day event was especially important in light of the so-called ‘Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act’ that will increase the financial burdens on small farmers across the state, forcing many to leave New York. Assemblyman Bill Reilich voted “no” on this legislation.
“It is important to be reminded of how critical the dairy industry is to New York State,” said Reilich. “Monroe County alone, contributes 78 billion pounds in dairy to the state’s industry; it is one of my top priorities to ensure that these farmers have a voice within the Assembly, which is why I continue to fight for legislation that improves the ability of our small farms to contribute to their community.”
Vendors featured at today's event included American Dairy Association, Dairy Council, Garelick Farms, HP Hood, McCadams Cheese, Mercer’s Dairy, New York State Dairy Foods, Perry’s Ice Cream, Pride of New York, Ronnybrook Farms Dairy, Sorrento Lactalis, Stewart’s Shops, Upstate Niagara Co-Op, and Jason Graziano.