As the ongoing trade war continues to impact the agricultural sector, the New York Farm Bureau has outlined its top priorities for the year, emphasizing labor reforms, trade policies, and mental health resources.

During a press conference in Albany, Bureau President David Fisher highlighted the need for changes in labor laws, particularly regarding the H-2A guest worker program. The organization is advocating for a three-year wage rate freeze for foreign agricultural workers under the program, allowing U.S. farmers to hire seasonal labor when domestic workers are unavailable.

“We want to pursue meaningful reforms that help farmers meet their labor needs,” Fisher said. “With our priorities intact, we also aim to increase some of the safety net features of these programs, which, due to inflation, haven’t kept up with the economic realities farmers face.”

Beyond labor concerns, the Bureau is calling for updates to the federal Farm Bill to better support New York’s diverse agricultural industry. This includes increased funding for dairy programs, specialty crop research, and conservation efforts to help sustain farms across the state.

Trade Barriers and Rising Costs Impacting Farmers

Trade remains a critical issue for New York farmers, who rely on exports to maintain profitability. Farm Bureau officials are urging policymakers to reduce tariffs and expand trade opportunities with key partners like Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. These measures are particularly crucial for the dairy industry and other agricultural sectors that have suffered from trade restrictions.

Additionally, the rising costs of farm operations continue to strain producers. With input costs—including feed, fuel, and fertilizers—steadily increasing, many farmers struggle to remain financially viable. Industry leaders warn that these financial pressures threaten farms and contribute to higher consumer prices.

“Our farmers continue to operate on razor-thin margins,” said Ashley Oeser, National Affairs Coordinator for the Bureau. “As costs rise, farms are not in a position to absorb these increases, meaning consumers ultimately pay the price as well.”

Mental Health and Rural Infrastructure in Focus

Another major area of concern is the mental health crisis among farmers. The Bureau is advocating for increased mental health resources and expanded access to agriculture-specific assistance programs. Advocates stress that many farmers face extreme stress due to financial instability, unpredictable weather patterns, and labor shortages.

To further support rural communities, the Bureau is also pushing for improvements in infrastructure, including better broadband access and transportation networks. These enhancements would help farmers modernize operations and improve overall efficiency.

As the Farm Bureau continues its advocacy efforts, industry leaders hope state and federal policymakers will take action to address these pressing issues.