Comprehensive reform failed, so let's work together as an industry to push AgJOBS forward

Saturday, 04 August 2007

The nursery industry has lobbied for immigration reform for more than a decade. It seemed like we were on the verge of a breakthrough this year, but politics got in the way.

On two occasions, senators put together bipartisan compromises designed to fix the broken system. These comprehensive bills included stipulations for increased border security, worker verification, improved guest-worker programs and paths for current undocumented workers to gain legal status after paying fines and penalties.

Included in both of these compromises were regulations consistent with the Agricultural Job Opportunity Benefits and Security (AgJOBS) Act. ANLA has lobbied for AgJOBS since 2001. It would reform the H-2A program, giving growers better access to legal immigrant labor. It would also give current illegal aliens working in agriculture a path to citizenship through years of continued ag work and good behavior.

However, both compromises were doomed once they were debated on the Senate floor. Opponents called it amnesty and tried to add unworkable amendments to the bill. The bills failed cloture vote twice and they were taken off the floor for further discussion.

But after the dust settles, we may find some opportunities by pushing AgJOBS as separate legislation.

With all the arguments against the comprehensive bill, the AgJOBS components weren’t attacked. Even opposing lawmakers can’t argue against the need for more ag laborers.

I have read opinions by various folks indicating that the comprehensive bill would not pass, but that AgJOBS still would emerge after all is said and done.

Hopefully, there is a sliver of truth in this concept, and we can end this chapter on a positive note.

- Dennis Molitor