Yakima Times

Rep. Dan Newhouse recently participated in a press conference held by the American Business Immigration Coalition in Washington, D.C. The discussion centered on reforms to the H-2A visa program, with a focus on strengthening the agriculture workforce. Rep. Newhouse spoke on the critical role of immigrant workers in the agriculture sector.

"Without immigrant workers, we would not have an agriculture industry," Rep. Newhouse stated. "We depend on immigrant workers to make sure all of you have food on the table when you sit down to eat with your families."

Rep. Newhouse also addressed the efforts made by former President Trump to reduce grocery prices, noting that a reliable workforce is essential to achieve this goal. "President Trump has made it his priority to bring down grocery prices. My answer to that, make sure we have a legal, dependable workforce," he remarked.

The press conference included discussions about Rep. Newhouse's previous legislative efforts to reform the H-2A program, known as the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. This legislation seeks to offer more predictability for employers by streamlining the program, while also protecting workers' rights. The act aims to make the program more efficient and accessible to farmers who require year-round labor.

The full press conference is available for viewing.