To cover costs associated with federal orders, handlers are assessed how much per hundredweight of milk received?

Handlers are assessed between 2 to 5 cents per hundredweight of milk received to cover the costs associated with federal orders. This fee is part of a system designed to ensure that handlers can maintain compliance with federal regulations regarding the marketing of milk, including the costs for administrative services and oversight of the milk supply. The designated range is meant to provide adequate funding to support these regulatory activities without placing an excessive financial burden on the handlers, allowing for a stable and compliant milk marketing system. Understanding this assessment is crucial for those involved in the dairy industry, as it impacts pricing and profitability.