[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 108 (Thursday, June 27, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E679]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





   RECOGNIZING LOUISIANA STATE REPRESENTATIVE COATES FOR HER EFFORTS 
                 EXPANDING ACCESS TO FRESH NATURAL MILK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CLAY HIGGINS

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 27, 2024

  Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Louisiana 
State Representative Kimberly Coates for her efforts to pass HB 467, a 
bill expanding access to Fresh Natural Milk.
  Louisiana's unfounded prohibition on natural milk was primarily a 
consequence of Federal interference. Despite fresh natural milk's 
benefits, the FDA holds that only pasteurized dairy should be consumed. 
Requiring the dairy industry to abide by this standard ensures the 
destruction of natural milk's holistic composition.
  HB 467 legalizes the sale of natural milk and dairy products, 
reinstating freedom of choice to Louisiana consumers, and providing 
millions of Americans with access to an uncorrupted source of nutrients 
and health. In its natural state, fresh milk is a nearly perfect food.
  Hundreds of studies have confirmed a connection between 
pasteurization and lactose intolerance, concluding that pasteurized 
milk's molecular decomposition allows it to seep through the gut, 
resulting in various health afflictions. Fresh, natural milk that has 
forgone pasteurization retains self-contained enzymes, facilitating its 
digestion and conferment of health. Accordingly, Representative Coates' 
``Fresh Natural Milk Bill'' will provide millions of Louisianans with a 
previously unrealized ability to consume dairy.
  Representative Coates work, guiding HB 467 through both chambers of 
the Louisiana State Legislature, is to be commended. Her bill passed 
the Louisiana House of Representatives in a 96-1 vote and through the 
Louisiana State Senate in a 32-3 vote. These wide margins of support 
reflect Representative Coates' determination and skill as a legislator.
  Representative Coates' legislation will benefit many Louisiana 
citizens, including our farmers, dairy producers, and consumers. I 
commend Representative Coates and congratulate her on HB 467's signing 
into Louisiana law.

                          ____________________