WASHINGTON, DC - At this year’s Washington Conference, held from June 10–12 in the nation’s capital, the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) plans to launch a labor activation as part of its industry advocacy initiatives.

“The urgency around labor reform is a matter of national security,” said IFPA Director of Labor and Workforce John Hollay. “Out-of-control labor costs are threatening to upend our entire domestic food supply chain. While we know our system needs major reform, there are immediate steps Congress can take now to provide relief. We continue to share those priorities in all forums that are addressing labor, and we need the industry to lend their voices and turn the volume up on our demands.”

As a press release detailed, the labor activation builds on the success of the WIC Basket activation, which contributed to a fully funded WIC fruit and vegetable benefit this spring. Members will be invited to take part as they gather for the Washington Conference this June.

The release also stated that the activation will illustrate what’s at stake without relief and reform of the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) and blocking of the Department of Labor (DOL) rule that exposes employers to liability for issues outside of their control.

“There is no shortcut to make changes to major laws,” said Vice President of U.S. Government Relations Rebeckah Adcock. “It requires constant, consistent effort. IFPA members and allies must keep showing up to share their stories and knowledge about the labor crisis and how it uniquely impacts specialty crops. We are proud to represent the industry in these many forums but, as we saw with our WIC success, fresh can prevail when our industry stands up for our livelihoods and prosperity to ensure policy makers understand agriculture’s critical need for a reliable workforce. We look forward to hearing those industry voices in the halls of Congress to ensure our message is heard in Washington."

Over the past several months, IFPA has been advocating for our industry in multiple capacities, with focuses such as:

• Meeting with DOL Acting Sec. Su and USDA Sec. Vilsack
• Congressional Review Act Resolutions
• AEWR Relief
• Wilson Center Taskforce on Labor in North America

For more details on these efforts and the upcoming Washington Conference, click here.

Registration for the conference is currently open, and no previous advocacy experience is needed.

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