Dairy Farmers Push for Action on Labor Challenges

The dairy industry is encouraged by potential H-2A reforms while supporting renewal of the USMCA.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — Agricultural labor challenges were among the top priorities discussed during a recent Capitol Hill fly-in, where dairy producers met with congressional offices to advocate for the industry.

Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us Tuesday’s Market Day Report for a recap.

In his conversation with RFD News, Bjerga said dairy producers are encouraged by legislation that could help address longstanding challenges with the H-2A visa program, which has historically been unworkable for many dairy operations.

Bjerga also discussed the upcoming review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

While he acknowledged the agreement is not perfect, he said it has provided an important framework for the dairy industry to have agricultural trade. He added that producers would like to see stronger enforcement involving Canada while preserving the benefits of the agreement.

Bjerga stressed that direct engagement with lawmakers remains important, saying producers making their voices heard is how meaningful change occurs.

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Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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