farm workers

A recent economic analysis by Oregon State University shows the state’s new ag overtime rules will negatively impact farm profitability and result in decreased paychecks for workers.  When the idea requiring overtime pay in the farming industry was first floated, supporters said farm workers across the state would benefit from larger paychecks.  OSU economist...

On Wednesday, central Washington’s Dan Newhouse was one of several lawmakers that spoke during a press conference put on the by American Business Immigration Coalition.  The event stressed the importance of “common-sense” reforms to the H-2A program as well as the importance of a strong agriculture workforce.  Newhouse said without imm...

Lost in the shuffle of tariffs, trade wars and hirings and firings, is the need for a fix for the Ag labor situation.  Rick Naerebout, CEO of the Idaho Dairymen’s Association, said their sector is supportive of making needed improvements to the H-2A program, but said their ultimate goal is a visa.   “And t...

Central Washington migrant or seasonal farmworkers, as well as their children, can access additional support when pursuing higher education.  The assistance is made available through Yakima Valley College’s College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP).   CAMP i...

Despite claims of providing economic relief for farmworkers, Save Family Farming says a proposal put forward by Washington state Senator Rebecca Saldaña fails to put money back in the pockets of workers.  Saldaña, Chair of the Senate Labor and Commerce Committee, has put forward Senate Bill 5722, creating a new state grant to pay for ag overtime costs.  However, Dillon Honcoop with Sa...

As growers across the Northwest prepare for the 2025 season, questions regarding immigration crackdowns linger.  Enrique Gastelum, Executive Director of WAFLA said while there have not been workplace targeted raids, that doesn't mean farm workers aren’t worried.  And when farm...

Farmworkers from across Washington gathered in Olympia on Tuesday February 4th, to speak about the harm the state’s new overtime law has caused.  Linda Vargas was one of those who participated in last week’s rally.  She said, while ag overt...

The Washington State Tree Fruit Association has thrown its support behind two pieces of legislation looking to address ag overtime.  Jon DeVaney has the latest.   If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@to...

Last month, we told you about an effort in Oregon to use kit homes to address the housing crisis in rural communities, and even farm worker housing.  Washington may be moving in a similar direction.  State senator Jeff Wilson recently introduced two bills to streamline the permitting process for kit homes.   “The kit h...

Oregon State University's Luisa Santamaria discusses her efforts to provide bilingual education to vineyard workers.     If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com ...