Montana Raw Milk Bill Moo-ves Ahead at the Legislature

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A bill that would legalize the sale of raw milk from small unregulated dairies has gained the approval of the House and is moving through the Montana Legislature.

House Bill 574 supporters say the bill is part of a growing movement which encourages locally grown, organic food; farmer accountability; and personal responsibility. They say pasteurization strips milk of its healthy enzymes and are frustrated with the government's prohibition of the drink.

Critics include state regulators and federal agencies that warn raw milk contains dangerous bacteria and allowing unregulated dairies to sell raw milk will increase incidences of serious illnesses across the state.

The measure is scheduled to face the Senate Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation this week and supporters say it's likely to receive a positive outcome.