Who is responsible for directly paying for the operations of Federal Orders?

The correct answer focuses on the role of processors of milk, also known as handlers. In the context of Federal Milk Marketing Orders, these processors are responsible for buying milk from dairy farmers and then processing it into various dairy products. The costs associated with the operations of Federal Orders, which include aspects like pricing regulations and market strategies, are ultimately passed on to these processors.

Processors play a critical role because they are the entities that actually handle and distribute the milk. They are obligated to pay farmers for their milk and also handle the necessary financial transactions associated with adhering to Federal Order regulations. The Federal Orders establish standard prices and guidelines, and it is the processors who financially comply with these regulations, ensuring that the entire system functions correctly.

While dairy farmers produce the milk, their payment from the processors is influenced by the regulations set forth by Federal Orders. Consumers may ultimately bear the economic burden through the prices they pay for dairy products, but the immediate responsibility for the operational debts and costs associated with Federal Orders lies with the milk handlers.