Zippy Duvall Calls on Trump and Congress to Address Agricultural Labor Shortages
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) is urging President Donald Trump and congressional leaders to work together on a bipartisan solution to address the country's agricultural labor challenges. The organization believes that creating a stable workforce is essential to protecting farm production and maintaining a reliable food supply.
AFBF President Zippy Duvall recently highlighted the importance of immigration and agricultural labor reform. He encouraged lawmakers from both political parties to recognize the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers and work toward practical solutions.
According to Duvall, American agriculture needs a dependable workforce to produce and deliver food to consumers. He welcomed renewed interest from President Trump and members of Congress in addressing the country's labor concerns.
President Trump has recently expressed support for finding a reasonable approach to immigration reform. During an interview on CBS's 60 Minutes, he discussed the possibility of allowing certain immigrants to remain in the United States, particularly those who have established themselves through employment and responsible contributions to their communities.
Trump acknowledged that some existing immigration policies may have been too strict. He also recognized that many people working in industries such as landscaping and hospitality have made valuable contributions to the country.
The president suggested that a possible agreement could be developed to address these concerns. His comments have renewed discussions about immigration policies and the need for practical solutions that consider both employers and workers.
Agriculture is among the industries that depend heavily on a reliable workforce. Many farmers rely on experienced workers to complete important seasonal activities, including planting, harvesting and maintaining crops.
The agricultural labor shortage has become a major concern for farmers and ranchers across the United States. Finding enough workers at the right time is important for completing farm operations and ensuring that agricultural products reach markets without unnecessary delays.
In June 2025, President Trump also acknowledged the challenges that immigration enforcement could create for American farmers. While speaking to reporters, he expressed concern about removing agricultural workers when farms depend on their labor. The following day, he shared a message on Truth Social emphasizing the importance of protecting farmers.
These statements highlighted the connection between immigration policies, agricultural employment and national food production. Farm organizations believe that any long-term solution should consider the needs of agricultural businesses as well as the contributions of workers.
Farm Bureau believes lawmakers already have an opportunity to address several agricultural labor concerns through the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act (SAWA). Introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chair GT Thompson, the proposed legislation aims to modernize the H-2A agricultural guest worker program.
The H-2A program allows eligible agricultural employers to hire foreign workers temporarily when qualified domestic workers are not available. However, farmers have raised concerns about the program's limitations and unpredictable labor costs. The SAWA Act aims to improve the existing system through two important changes.
First, it proposes expanding access to a year-round agricultural workforce. This would help address the needs of farming operations that require workers beyond traditional seasonal periods. Second, the legislation seeks to reduce unpredictable changes in wage rates. More consistent wage requirements could help farmers plan their expenses and manage their businesses more effectively.
The proposal is based on recommendations from Farm Bureau members who participated in the House Agriculture Committee's Agricultural Labor Working Group. These recommendations reflect concerns shared by agricultural producers who want a more dependable and practical labor system. Duvall believes that addressing agricultural labor shortages should be a shared responsibility among lawmakers from both political parties.
He has encouraged Democrats and Republicans to work together rather than delay action until another congressional session. According to Farm Bureau, the agricultural industry cannot afford to wait for future opportunities when farmers are already dealing with workforce challenges. A stable labor system would help agricultural businesses plan their operations, manage production costs and continue supplying food to American families.
Duvall also emphasized that farmers and ranchers are ready to work with the administration and Congress to develop meaningful reforms. Agriculture plays an important role in the American economy, and farm workers are essential to keeping the industry operating. From planting crops to harvesting produce, workers contribute to every stage of food production.
Farm Bureau believes that improving agricultural labor policies can support farmers, protect rural communities and strengthen the country's food supply. The organization is calling for immediate bipartisan discussions on immigration and workforce reform, with the SAWA Act offering a possible starting point.
As discussions continue, farmers and ranchers hope lawmakers will recognize the importance of a dependable agricultural workforce. A practical solution could benefit agricultural employers, workers and consumers while helping American agriculture remain productive and competitive.
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