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
has retired from his role as president and CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives. The coalition advocates for a market-based guestworker program that addresses both year-round and seasonal agricultural needs, along with reforms to wage and regulatory requirements to protect workers while ensuring farm viability.
Why It's Important?
The leadership change in the Ag Workforce Coalition comes at a critical time for U.S. agriculture, which faces ongoing challenges related to labor shortages and regulatory pressures. The coalition's focus on creating a practical guestworker program is vital for maintaining the stability and productivity of the agricultural sector. Effective leadership in this area can drive policy changes that support both farm operations and worker rights, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural economy.
