The Oregon House Committee on Rules convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss proposed legislation aimed at improving workplace protections for farm workers. A significant focus of the meeting was the importance of consulting with farmers to gather accurate data regarding the benefits and protections available to farm workers.

During the session, representatives from the agricultural community expressed concerns about the accuracy and completeness of existing data on farm worker conditions. One farmer highlighted their proactive engagement with state agencies, sharing detailed financial information related to housing upgrades and wage data to support economic studies. This testimony raised questions about why existing data was not being utilized in the proposed study.

State Representative Anna Scharf, who also operates a family farm, voiced strong objections to the portrayal of farmers in previous testimonies. She described her experience in the House Labor Committee as painful, stating that many farmers treat their employees with respect and provide safe working conditions. Scharf criticized the legislation for potentially misdirecting focus towards family farmers rather than addressing issues related to farm labor contractors, whom she identified as the "actual bad actors."

The proposed study aims to evaluate labor standards and the working experiences of farm workers, but Scharf argued that it incorrectly assumes all farm workers are seasonal and predominantly minorities. She emphasized the need for the committee to consider the perspectives of family farm owners who also work alongside their employees.

The discussions highlighted a divide between lawmakers and farmers regarding the portrayal of agricultural labor practices and the effectiveness of proposed legislative measures. As the committee continues to deliberate, the outcome of this legislation could significantly impact both farm workers and family-owned farms in Oregon.