US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack recently traveled to the campus of the University of South Florida, located in Tampa, Florida, to meet and talk with agricultural officials from the sunshine state.While immigration reform is often discussed, the political reality is that it is a hot-button issue that many politicians want to stay away from. It appears that those within the administration are not afraid of the issue.
As Richard Mullins reports for Tampa Bay online, In his meeting with the Florida agricultural officials, Vilsack broke the issue down to its basics for agriculture, and in doing so he may have foreshadowed how the administration will deal with the issue. Simply put, Vilsack told the gathering that food prices, food safety, and protecting against invasive species are all tied to immigration. All three sub-issues are very important to the Florida agricultural industry.
Vilsack laid out what comprehensive immigration reform might look like: better screening on immigrant background checks at the border, a financial penalty "that recognizes illegal immigrants did break the law, a realization that people must start paying taxes, and a resolution that 'they must go to the back of the line.' Vilsack said, behind those already trying to immigrate legally."
According to the Mullins article, what was said seemed to sound good to those in attendance. Michael Stuart, president of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association agreed that comprehensive immigration reform is needed, but Wade Grigsby, president of the Florida Cattleman's Association believes securing the border should be the top priority, and then handle labor when the border is secure.
To read the Mullins article click here.
Posted: 05/18/10
