WASHINGTON — American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented on the recent announcement by the Department of Homeland Security that it would begin enforcing vaccine requirements for non-U.S. citizens traveling to the United States through land ports of entry and ferry terminals. The vaccine requirement includes essential workers.

“Farmers and ranchers share the goal of ensuring the health and safety of America’s families. We also have a responsibility to put food on the tables of those same families. We are extremely concerned that the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to require essential workers be vaccinated before entering the United States will limit agriculture’s ability to grow safe and nutritious food. Without a robust and stable workforce, crops could also be left rotting in the fields.

“DHS failed to provide proper notice of the mandate, which gives farmers, ranchers and agriculture suppliers no time to prepare. Farmworkers and truck drivers provide critical skills and have been designated as essential by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Further limiting the available workforce will exacerbate existing supply chain issues as families face rising prices and fewer options at the grocery store.”

–American Farm Bureau Federation