February 16, 2017

Western Growers’ Statement on Acosta Being Named Labor Secretary Nominee

IRVINE, California (February 16, 2017): In response to President Donald J. Trump naming Alexander Acosta as the nominee to head the Department of Labor, Western Growers President and CEO Tom Nassif issued the following statement:

“We look forward to meeting Secretary-designate Acosta.  American farmers are looking to the Trump Administration for leadership on many challenging issues, and none ranks higher than the need for an immigration policy that protects American farmers from the loss of their valued employees and ensures access to labor in the future.  Within American agriculture, fresh produce growers are especially impacted by our broken immigration system, and it is our hope that as a resident of Florida, one of the nation’s major fresh produce states, Mr. Acosta will bring a well-informed perspective to the Cabinet.” 

About Western Growers:
Founded in 1926, Western Growers represents local and regional family farmers growing fresh produce in Arizona, California and Colorado. Our members and their workers provide over half the nation’s fresh fruits, vegetables and tree nuts, including nearly half of America’s fresh organic produce. Some members also farm throughout the U.S. and in other countries so people have year-round access to nutritious food. For generations, we have provided variety and healthy choices to consumers. Connect with and learn more about Western Growers on our Twitter and Facebook.