The struggle to sustain America’s family farms was front and center during a recent government meeting, where farmers voiced urgent concerns about rising labor costs and competition from imported produce.

One farmer from Alabama highlighted the stark reality of labor expenses, stating, “It costs me $22 an hour for my H-2A labor,” which is significantly higher than the minimum wage in many states. As labor rates continue to climb, farmers are feeling the pinch. “We still have to pay for their housing,” he added, emphasizing the financial burden that comes with hiring seasonal workers.

The conversation turned to the impact of cheap imports, particularly tomatoes from Mexico, which are undercutting local prices. “Without them, we couldn’t harvest our crop, but we can’t compete with the cheap prices,” he lamented. The proposed tariffs of 17% to 20% were deemed insufficient to protect Florida farmers, who are struggling to survive against a flood of competitively priced produce.

Another farmer, Mr. Veil, urged Congress to freeze the Agricultural Wage Rate (AWAR) to prevent further increases that could drive farmers out of business. “We’re going to price ourselves out of farming,” he warned, calling for a level playing field with foreign competitors.

The meeting underscored a critical moment for America’s agricultural sector, as farmers seek not just relief but a sustainable path forward in an increasingly challenging economic landscape. The future of family farms hangs in the balance, with calls for immediate action to address these pressing issues.