It is hereby declared that the dairy industry is a paramount agricultural industry of the state, and the normal processes of producing and marketing milk are enterprises of vast economic importance to the state and of vital importance to the consuming public which should be safeguarded and protected in the public interest. The Legislature finds that the marketing of milk requires producers to receive prompt payment. It is the policy of this state to protect producers against loss of payment for bulk milk. The public interest requires the establishment of a system to provide payment security for producers.