UPDATE: Farmers in Idaho are urgently calling for immigration reform, emphasizing that migrant workers are essential to the state’s economy. During a pivotal meeting on November 9, 2023, at Idaho State University’s Bennion Student Union Building in Idaho Falls, industry leaders voiced their concerns about the future of agriculture in the state.
Although Rep. Mike Simpson was unable to attend due to a House vote on government shutdown measures, he delivered a crucial message via a prerecorded video. Simpson highlighted the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, which aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to support agricultural labor. This bill, originally introduced years ago, has passed through the House twice but remains stalled in the Senate. It was reintroduced earlier this year but has yet to go for a vote.
Simpson stated, “I think we have the best chance that we have had to pass it right now under this administration. It’s one of my top priorities … to get this done.” This statement underscores the urgency felt by farmers as they face a workforce crisis.
Zak Miller, CEO of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation, addressed the challenges posed by the current H-2A visa program, which has stringent requirements and high costs that hinder farmers from retaining necessary labor. He remarked, “It’s critical to U.S. agriculture … but it’s a bad program, and it’s not serving Idaho well.”
Statistics presented at the forum revealed that nearly 40% of Idaho’s agricultural workforce is undocumented. This startling figure indicates a significant reliance on migrant labor, which is increasingly threatened by current policies. Miller pointed to a recent study showing undocumented workers often have a lower criminal record than the average U.S. citizen, adding to the argument for reform.
The atmosphere was tense as concerns were raised about the potential deportation of legal migrants, which could further disrupt the workforce. Miller noted, “You get absenteeism up and down the community,” highlighting the emotional and economic toll on both farmers and workers.
The urgency for change is palpable as the Idaho agriculture sector anticipates a critical winter season ahead. With key legislation stalled, stakeholders are pushing for immediate action from lawmakers to ensure the stability of Idaho’s farming industry. Farmers are calling on the community and officials to support their efforts to advocate for reform that is necessary to maintain the state’s agricultural output.
As developments unfold, farmers and advocates remain hopeful that the upcoming sessions in Congress will bring the necessary reforms to sustain Idaho’s agricultural economy. The eyes of the farming community are now on Washington, D.C., awaiting action on the Farm Workforce Modernization Act.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops, and share your thoughts on how immigration reform impacts your community.
