More than 40 agricultural organizations are warning that federal immigration enforcement policies are disrupting U.S. food production and could contribute to higher consumer prices. The groups are urging President Donald Trump and congressional leaders to address agricultural labor shortages, citing disruptions to harvesting, livestock transportation and meatpacking operations.
Organizations representing dairy, livestock and produce producers say experienced immigrant workers are essential to maintaining a reliable domestic food supply. They warn that continued workforce uncertainty could increase production costs and leave some crops unharvested.
Agricultural Groups Call for Workforce Solutions
The organizations raising concerns include the Milk Producers Council, the Texas International Produce Association, the Kansas Livestock Association and the Indiana Dairy Producers.
According to reporting by The Washington Post, the groups have asked federal leaders to address the effects of immigration enforcement operations on agricultural businesses in several states.
Reported disruptions have affected meatpacking facilities, livestock shipments and harvesting activities. These interrupt...