State Rep. Matt Maddock this week testified before the House Committee on Government Operations in support of his bill package, House Bills 5217-5219, legislation that would expand consumer freedom of choice by allowing the sale of raw milk by dairy farmers directly to consumers.

With a glass of raw milk in one hand and an Oreo cookie in the other, Maddock opened his testimony with a touch of humor. “There are fewer things in the world that are better than fresh milk and an Oreo cookie,” said Maddock. “Everyone knows that, right?”

Maddock was joined by Ashley Armstrong and Chelsie Boles.

Armstrong began her testimony highlighting the inconsistency in how government approaches personal risk. “Adults are currently allowed to make informed decisions involving known risks every single day: alcohol, vape pens, sushi with raw fish, raw oysters, and even raw cookie dough,” said Armstrong. “In those cases, the government doesn’t ban access. Instead, it provides information and allows adults to decide for themselves. So, why shouldn’t adults be allowed to purchase farm-fresh foods they believe are healthier for them while fully understanding and accepting the risks?”

Armstrong went on to explain that millions of people report health improvements after gaining access to traditional foods that have been consumed for generations, including raw dairy. She noted these reported benefits stem from several factors. Raw milk contains compounds that aid in the digestion of lactose, as well as naturally occurring enzymes that support its own digestion. It also contains beneficial living compounds that help restore gut microbial balance and heat-sensitive bioactive compounds, such as lactoferrin, which have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, gut-supporting, and immune-supporting properties.

“We need to acknowledge the reality of modern times,” said Armstrong. “Consumers want this food. People are increasingly frustrated with the conventional food system and want food that is simpler, cleaner, and more transparent. The demand to return to traditional farm-fresh foods is growing, and our policies are not keeping up. Michigan has an opportunity to lead — not by forcing choices, but by allowing choice.”

Chelsie Boles, owner of a family run farm in Southeast Michigan, spoke on behalf of small farm operations, highlighting the challenges they face from excessive red tape. “Small agriculture is suffering from overregulation on food disguised as a means of public safety,” she said, noting that the current system creates unnecessary financial burdens that make it harder for small producers to survive.

Maddock said his legislation respects both personal responsibility and consumer freedom.

“House Bills 5217-5219 are about trusting adults to make their own informed choices,” Maddock said. “Michigan should not be in the business of telling people what foods they are allowed to buy when they understand the risks and are willing to accept them. This is about respecting food freedom and supporting small farmers.”

The bill package remains before the committee for further consideration.