RIGHT NOW Congress, has the ability to deliver immediate meaningful relief for the fresh produce and floral industry by passing the Supporting Farm Operations Act (S.3848 and HR.7046) introduced by Senator Thom Tillis (NC) and Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI).   

The entire fresh produce supply chain relies on a healthy market for US farmers and producers and that is why we must rally our entire supply chain and business community to make it crystal clear to Congress: this legislation is not just important, it's absolutely vital for the survival and success of our businesses.  

You need to ensure Congress understands that our ability to stay in business hinges on their action on this issue. This critical legislation will:   

• Immediately Freeze the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for two years. 

• Require the Department of Labor to apply a primary duties test when determining an employee’s salary, ensuring that wages won't arbitrarily be increased for work not done.  

• Provide labor certainty and relief to fresh fruit and vegetable growers which is critical to bringing certainty to the entire fresh produce and floral supply chains.  

The concept has received bipartisan support in the past, and we need your help to build the momentum for Congress to act. Waiting for the perfect comprehensive reform bill is no longer an option. Congress must take immediate action to offer relief. The time to act is NOW!