Attendees at this year's Washington Conference will have the opportunity to gain insight into the continuing dairy policy debate from Representative Collin Peterson (D-MN) when he speaks at the Insiders Breakfast on June 23. As ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee, Peterson is in a unique position to direct and influence the upcoming farm bill, which will inevitably affect dairy policy.

Currently serving in his 11th term, Peterson is a veteran of the agriculture industry. He was raised on a farm in Baker, Minn., and has continued his strong support of agriculture during his career in Congress. Peterson recently announced his support for the National Milk Producer Federation's Foundation for the Future proposal, which would establish a government program to control milk supply. IDFA is steadfastly opposed to the proposal.

"We will provide a valuable forum for our members to interact with Reprentative Peterson and explain why this policy proposal just won't work in today's global economy," said Jerry Slominski, IDFA senior vice president of legislative affairs and economic policy.

Peterson will join Rep. Reid Ribble (R-WI), a fellow member of the House Agriculture Committee, who also will speak during the breakfast. Currently serving his first term in Congress, Ribble represents a district with one of the highest concentrations of dairy companies in the nation.

In addition to the Insiders Breakfast, other conference highlights will include a dairy policy briefing, networking opportunities with members of Congress and the annual Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party. The conference will be held at the Washington Court Hotel June 22 and 23.

IDFA encourages members to register today.

Members with questions regarding the conference agenda may contact Ashley Burch, IDFA assistant director of political programs, at aburch@idfa.org or (202) 220-3534.

For information about registration or hotel reservations, contact Patrick Crosson, IDFA meetings registrar, at pcrosson@idfa.org or (202) 220-3524.