Comprehensive Reform Needed for Ag Workers

A Wellington dairy farmer says Colorado agriculture has to compete with other industries for the same pool of workers and most of these workers are immigrants.

Jon Slutsky of La Luna Dairy says current laws leave farms, ranches and the construction, hotel and restaurant industries short handed.

"We need comprehensive immigration reform. We need the ability to have people come to the United State legally and work on our farms and ranches for longer than six months. The can come and work here and be free to go home and see their families if they want and return without prejudice."

Slutsky started farming in 1981 and will speak about challenges in the ag workforce at the Governor's Forum on Colorado Agriculture February 21st in Denver. Although he sees Colorado lawmakers attempting to pass immigration reform, the the current political climate is discouraging.

Slutsky will be joined in the discussion by the Chair of the National Council of Agricultural Employers