A new proposal in the state Assembly would require all cheese served�in University of Wisconsin System campuses�to come exclusively from Wisconsin cheese�manufacturers. Currently, contracts and orders for cheese give preference to Wisconsin producers but do not insist cheese come only from Wisconsin. The proposal, written by Rep. Jeff Smith, D-Eau Claire, aims to�assist Wisconsin cheese producers as well as provide�UW�System students with �flavorful� Wisconsin�cheese.

Nate Williams,�legislative aide for Smith, described the twofold�purpose of the bill.

“We do want to help the dairy industry in the state,” Williams said. “We also want to provide UW System students with high-quality Wisconsin�cheese that students would enjoy eating.” Williams added the proposal is unique in that�no other law mandates a product served on UW System campuses�come exclusively from Wisconsin. However, Williams did say the proposed�cheese bill would follow similar initiatives around the state, such as the “Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin” movement that encourages Wisconsinites to consume locally grown and produced goods.

Williams�also�mentioned the intended cultural�aim of eating cheese exclusively from Wisconsin.

“This bill will hopefully build loyalty and support�for Wisconsin cheese among college students, which is important,”�he said.

Williams believed the proposal would not get a vote before the end of the legislative session in mid-March, but was optimistic of the bill’s future.

“The proposal has bipartisan support, and I believe it has a very good chance of passage,” he said.

Cheese production is an integral part of Wisconsin’s economy.�According to the United States Department of Agriculture,�Wisconsin produces more cheese than any other state in the country as of 2006.�The Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board says Wisconsin makes�more than 600 varieties of cheese, eclipsing its nearest competitor, California, by more than 300.

Allie Johnson, a University of Wisconsin freshman, said the idea would evoke cheese pride among�Wisconsin college students. ������������������������������������������� ������������������������

“I think if we only have Wisconsin cheese, it would make me�and other Wisconsin students very proud of our state,” she said.

Paul Evans, director of University Housing, declined to comment on the proposal.