Congressman John R. Moolenaar | Rep. John R. Moolenaar Official U.S House Headshot
Congressman John R. Moolenaar | Rep. John R. Moolenaar Official U.S House Headshot
Congressman John Moolenaar questioned Acting Secretary of Labor, Julie Su, in a hearing of the Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education today. Moolenaar pressed Su on department policies that have hurt farmers in Michigan, specifically addressing the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for farm laborers in the state.
Moolenaar expressed his concerns, stating, "Acting Secretary Su’s indifference to rural America has harmed Michigan farmers and their hope for a prosperous future. I have heard fifth and sixth-generation farmers in my district say they will be the last in their family to farm unless something changes." He further criticized the Biden administration for not addressing the issue with the needed urgency and urged the House to pass his Supporting Farm Operations Act to provide relief for farmers.
In January, Moolenaar introduced the bipartisan Supporting Farm Operations Act, which aims to reverse the Department of Labor’s decision to raise the AEWR on Michigan farmers and freeze the rate from increasing until the end of 2025. This initiative is part of Moolenaar's efforts to support the agricultural community in his district and alleviate the financial burden imposed by the increasing labor rates.
This is not the first time Moolenaar has raised concerns about this issue, as he previously questioned Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack on the matter last month. Those interested can watch a video of Moolenaar’s questioning of Acting Secretary Su for more insights.
The debate over labor rates and their impact on Michigan farmers continues as stakeholders advocate for measures to support the agricultural sector in the state.
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