Labor crisis in Californias farm sector

The Los Angeles Times notes that both the immigration crackdown and new tariffs are threatening produce farmers in California:

“The administration’s vows of mass raids targeting undocumented immigrants, combined with its new tariff-induced trade wars, have farmers and labor groups united behind the need for legislation that ensures the U.S. continues producing an ample food supply and has sufficient workers to tend its crops.”

The administration’s approach to immigration appears to be comprehensive against all immigration perhaps with the exception of skilled workers.

The three largest California counties in terms of dollar value of farm production – Kern, Fresno, and Tulare, which produce half of the state’s farm output – have workforces which are 75% foreign born. Diary:  more than 50% foreign born; Grapes: 70% foreign born; Almonds: 70% foreign-born; Strawberries: 70% foreign born; Cattle: over 50% foreign born (go here).

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