An ebbing COVID-19 pandemic, an appreciation of the labor crisis in agriculture, and a heightened bipartisan desire for immigration reform all make 2021 a unique opportunity for progress in ensuring a secure dairy workforce if the moment is seized, NMPF Senior Director of Government Relations Claudia Larson says in a Dairy Defined podcast. 

“This window of opportunity, I think if we don't seize it, we're not entirely sure when it will open again,” Larson said. If people want to become involved, your voice will have an impact with your members of Congress.” 

The Farm Workforce Modernization Act, a bipartisan attempt to address ag labor needs, may reach the floor of the House of Representatives this week. Larson said support for the bill is important to build momentum in the Senate to reach its own agreement, noting that people who want to urge their own lawmakers to act can do so by becoming a Dairy Advocate here.