What's Happening?
Zippy Duvall, President of the Farm Bureau Federation, and Dave Puglia, President & CEO of Western Growers, have been appointed as co-chairs of the Ag Workforce Coalition. They succeed Chuck Conner, who retired as President and CEO of the National Council
of Farmer Cooperatives. The coalition advocates for a market-based guestworker program that addresses the year-round and seasonal needs of U.S. agriculture. It also seeks reforms to wage and regulatory requirements to protect workers while ensuring the viability of farm operations. The coalition aims to provide stability for experienced farmworkers contributing to U.S. agriculture.
Why It's Important?
The leadership change in the Ag Workforce Coalition is significant as it continues to lobby for policies that impact the agricultural workforce. The coalition's focus on guestworker programs and regulatory reforms is crucial for addressing labor shortages in the agricultural sector, which is essential for maintaining productivity and competitiveness. The appointment of Duvall and Puglia brings experienced leadership to the coalition, potentially influencing policy decisions that affect farm and ranch operations across the U.S.
