IRVINE, CALIF. (July 19, 2024) – Following the recent court decision to grant Wonderful Nurseries’ request for a preliminary injunction to halt the bargaining process with the United Farm Workers union, Western Growers President and CEO Dave Puglia issued the following statement:

“We applaud the court’s decision to halt the certification process and thoroughly examine the constitutionality of AB 113 (the “Card Check” law). The judge acknowledged the significant constitutional concerns and potential irreparable harm that compliance with this law could impose on employers and farmworkers alike.

The court found that ‘the public interest weighs in favor of preliminary injunctive relief given the constitutional rights at stake in this matter’ and that Wonderful is likely to prevail in its legal challenge. The decision aims to preserve the fundamental due process and First Amendment rights of farmworkers, ensuring they are not coerced or pressured into union representation without their clear, voluntary consent. This decision hopefully signals a forthcoming resolution that protects regulated secret ballot elections, free from intimidation and fraud.”

For more information, please contact:

Ann Donahue
(949) 302-7600
[email protected]

About Western Growers:

Founded in 1926, Western Growers represents local and regional family farmers growing fresh produce in California, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico. Western Growers’ members and their workers provide over half the nation’s fresh fruits, vegetables and tree nuts, including half of America’s fresh organic produce. Connect and learn more about Western Growers on Twitter and Facebook.

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