Palmetto State News

Senator Tim Scott and 15 of his Senate colleagues are urging Senate leadership to take immediate action to alleviate the financial burden on American farmers caused by rising labor costs. In a letter led by Senator Mike Crapo, the senators emphasized the need to freeze the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) to prevent further strain on agricultural producers.

"The increasing cost of labor for agriculture producers is unsustainable," stated the senators in their letter. They highlighted the significant impact of AEWR increases on farms nationwide, with the national average AEWR reaching $17.55 this year, a 5.6 percent increase from the previous year. The senators expressed concern over the escalating costs of inputs like energy and fertilizer, as well as additional expenses related to guest worker programs and new regulations.

The letter underscored the critical role of American farmers in ensuring food security and emphasized the urgency of addressing the challenges they face. "If costs continue to increase as they have, the pressure put on America’s food producers will fundamentally shift the food production model that has allowed us to be agriculturally independent and secure," the senators warned.

Senator Scott has been a vocal advocate for supporting farmers and lowering food prices. He has previously introduced legislation to freeze the AEWR and alleviate the financial strain on agricultural producers. South Carolina farmers, in particular, are facing a 7% increase in AEWR, leading to higher production costs and contributing to the nationwide increase in grocery prices.

The senators' efforts to address the AEWR issue align with their broader goal of supporting farmers and ensuring food affordability for American families. By urging Senate leadership to take action, they are working towards maintaining the stability of the agricultural industry and safeguarding the nation's food supply.