Raw milk supporters have something to smile about. Some very positive, forward ground has recently been gained on the legal front.

News from Sally Fallon, President of the Weston A Price foundation, drew attention to a March 20th press release stating that a temporary restraining order had been granted against the enforcement of AB 1735 (please refer to our December 9th post on AB 1735).

In the light of what antics have been playing out by those charged with the responsibility of safe-guarding public health, this recent ruling by Judge Harry J. Tobias of the San Benito Superior Court in Hollister, California, is certainly a breath of fresh air.

Representing the plaintiffs (Organic Pastures Dairy Company and Claravale Farms) was attorney Gary Cox of the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund. He stated that, “The Judge’s ruling is consistent with the evidence and the law of the case,” and that  “…. we had provided evidence that our members would both go out of business should AB 1735 be enforced, and that there was no scientific or reasonable basis for using coliforms as the standard for safety and health. ”

As good a news as this ruling may be, all is not yet over. Further battles still lie ahead.

There is a further hearing on April 25th where both sides will be permitted to submit declarations, affidavits as well as bring forward expert and lay witnesses as live testimony. A ruling is expected by May 25th, 2008.

Reliable sources also report that several concerned legislators have introduced bills to rescind AB 1735 and use a “more reasonable and scientifically based limit” than the current 10 coliform limit.

To find out more about the sterling work carried out by the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund and the Farm-to-Consumer Foundation please visit www.farmtoconsumerfoundation.org.

Any offers for direct financial support to these legal efforts please CONTACT: Taaron Meikle, President, The Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund, (703) 964-7421

In support of continued education
and freedom of choice for healthy living.
Sven