Steps of the Rulemaking Process for the National Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula Hearing

The following reflect the steps followed for this rulemaking process. The current step in process is indicated in bold. 

  1. USDA receives proposal; 
  2. USDA issues an Action Plan and Request for Additional Proposals;
  3. USDA issues a Notice of Hearing, and ex parte begins;  
  4. USDA holds a public hearing; 
  5. USDA issues a recommended decision (Proposed Rule); 
  6. Opportunity for the public to submit comments; the deadline for comments is September 13, 2024;
  7. USDA issues a final decision, and ex parte ends;
  8. Affected producers vote on whether to accept the provisions of the Order, in an all or nothing vote; 
  9. USDA determines producer approval;
  10. USDA issues a final rule or termination of proceeding;
  11. USDA implements the order (if approved by producers).