By Andi Anderson
Michigan Farm Bureau delegates made a strong showing at the 105th American Farm Bureau Annual Convention, with several of their policy proposals gaining national approval.
Labor in the Spotlight:
- AEWR: Michigan's call to eliminate the Adverse Effect Wage Rate and cap year-over-year increases resonated, winning support from delegates nationwide.
- H-2A Program: Proposals opposing additional fees and supporting joint applications for workers were also adopted, reflecting growing concerns about program costs.
Beyond Labor:
- Seasonal and Perishable Crops: Michigan's policy recommendation for a price support program like the American Seasonal and Perishable Crop Support Act gained traction, highlighting the needs of specialty crop farmers.
- Cash Deposit Limits: A policy opposing limits on cash deposits for farm businesses, born from local concerns, found its way into the national fiscal policy.
- Artificial Intelligence: Recognizing the transformative potential of AI in agriculture, delegates approved a comprehensive policy promoting its safe and equitable adoption, including concerns about safety standards, transparency, and bias.
Michigan's Impact:
- Carl Bednarski, re-elected to the AFBF Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of state-level initiatives reaching the national stage.
- Grassroots Participation: Bednarski credited Michigan's success to strong engagement from members, urging continued action through text messages and online channels.
- Collaboration and Momentum: He noted the growing national recognition of Michigan's leadership on labor issues and expressed optimism for further collaborative efforts.
The convention marked a significant win for Michigan Farm Bureau, showcasing their influence on national agricultural policy across diverse areas like labor, crop support, and emerging technologies.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Michigan, General