Farm labor shortages

Pennsylvania Farmers Face Labor Shortage After Voting for Policies They Opposed

The whole thing is screwed up: Farmers in deep-red Pennsylvania struggle to find workers. This is a problem that’s hitting Pennsylvania farmers hard, and it’s not exactly a secret why. The labor pool is shrinking, and the folks who are available aren’t exactly lining up for the work. One dairy farmer, Tim Wood, put it plainly: “People don’t understand that if we don’t get more labor, our cows don’t get milked and our crops don’t get picked.”

The problem isn’t new, and the warning signs were there for everyone to see. Many predicted this exact outcome when certain political policies were enacted.… Continue reading

North Koreans Report Forced Labor in Russia, Echoing Slave-Like Conditions

Reports indicate that Russia is increasingly relying on North Korean laborers to address labor shortages, potentially sending over 50,000 workers to Russia. These workers endure grueling conditions, often working excessive hours in dangerous environments with minimal safety measures. They are closely monitored by North Korean authorities to prevent escapes, with the majority of their earnings going to the state. Despite the harsh realities, some have managed to escape, highlighting the desperation and exploitation faced by these individuals.

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ICE Raids on Farms Lead to Crop Rot, Potential Food Supply Issues

Immigration enforcement operations have caused significant labor shortages on farms across major agricultural states, leading to crop losses and financial strain for farmers. Industry representatives estimate that a substantial percentage of farmworkers have stopped reporting to work due to these actions, causing disruption to the food supply chain. This labor shortage has sparked debate over immigration and visa system reform, particularly as native-born workers are unlikely to replace lost immigrant labor. Producers warn of potentially higher food prices and decreased availability if labor disruptions persist, highlighting the need for policymakers to address enforcement while also developing sustainable labor policies for the agricultural sector.

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