There is finally light at the end of the tunnel after weeks of disruptions caused by the record-setting 43-day government shutdown and ongoing disputes in Congress over a continuing resolution package. On Nov. 12, lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives voted 222 to 209 to pass a continuing resolution to fund the government through Jan. 30, 2026, and it was signed into law by President Donald J. Trump that evening.

In dairy-related news this first week of November 2025: The USDA plans to release key production data in November, IDFA submits comments on global dairy trade barriers, a carcass composting bill passes in California, and Chobani partners with U.S. Soccer.

In the news affecting a dairy producer's bottom line the third full week of October 2025: Class I base milk price tumbles in November to $16.75, the USDA plans to resume FSA operations amid government shutdown, the GDT index is down 1.4%, and Secretary Rollins announces plan for American ranchers and consumers.

In the news affecting dairy producers' bottom lines the first full week of October 2025: U.S. government shutdown hits day nine, NEXT assists with nearly 80 million pounds of dairy product export sales, and the USDEC advances trade between Taiwan and Indonesia.

As the clock struck midnight and the calendar turned from September to October, the U.S. government officially shut down, with the Senate unable to strike any sort of budget compromise.

Last week was an abundance of activity to conclude the 118th Congress, as a potential government shutdown loomed over Friday. By the end, an agreement was reached to not only temporarily fund federal operations, but also extend the farm bill.

Here’s an update on economic factors impacting your dairy’s financial picture.

Late on Friday, March 8, and hours before the deadline to avoid a partial government shutdown, the Senate passed the bill for a $460 billion spending package that includes funding for six federal agencies by a vote of 75-22. The bill, which was passed by the House with a vote of 339-85 earlier in the week, was then signed by President Joe Biden on Saturday.

Here is a summary of news released this week that will have an impact on your dairy operation.