(AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)
More than 40 agricultural organizations are warning that federal immigration enforcement policies are disrupting American food production and threatening to increase consumer prices. The Washington Post reports that organizations representing dairy, livestock and produce producers have urged President Donald Trump and congressional leaders to address growing agricultural labor shortages.
The groups, including the Milk Producers Council, the Texas International Produce Association, the Kansas Livestock Association and the Indiana Dairy Producers, say immigration enforcement operations have disrupted meatpacking facilities, livestock shipments and harvesting activities in several states. Agricultural employers argue that experienced immigrant workers are essential to maintaining domestic food production. They warn that continued workforce disruptions could increase production costs and leave some crops unharvested.
The organizations are calling for legislation that would provide legal work authorization for established agricultural employees. Industry leaders say labor uncertainty adds to existing financial pressures from higher fertilizer costs, tariffs and supply chain disruptions. The debate comes as agricultural employers seek more dependable access to workers during critical production periods.
NAFB news service
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