New York Farm Bureau (NYFB) commends the bi-partisan passage of the Farm Workforce Modernization Act in the U.S. House. This includes the support of many members of New York’s congressional delegation on both sides of the aisle, and we now call on the U.S. Senate to support the bill that moves the discussion forward for much needed agricultural labor reform.
Access to farm labor remains a priority for our members, and this bill goes a long way towards addressing the shortage of agricultural workers that limits our farmers’ ability to plant, harvest, and care for livestock. In addition, it will include dairy farms in the federal guest worker visa program as well as address the needs of migrant workers who are already in this country. Their contributions to our food system are invaluable and should be recognized through the passage of this bill.
NYFB continues to advocate for some changes to improve the legislation, including adjusting the cap on year-round guest worker visas, ensuring a fair and competitive wage rate, and creating an employment threshold that accurately reflects an agricultural workday. Regardless, this legislation would take a significant step to ensure that New York agriculture is positioned to have a sustainable and reliable workforce that will support our food supply and rural economy.
David Fisher, President±
New York Farm Bureau
