1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

We need public service announcements to alleviate deportation fears among migrant farm workers and provide information on how they can apply for programs like H-2A visas to work legally. The threat of deportation is causing migrant farm workers to avoid showing up for work out of fear, leading to significant labor shortages that could devastate America's food supply. Without these essential workers, crops will rot in the fields and food prices will skyrocket. California, which grows over half of the nation's produce, is particularly vulnerable. The deportation of migrant farm laborers would be catastrophic for agriculture and food production. Farms rely heavily on this workforce, and their absence would leave fields unharvested and grocery stores empty. Prices for basic foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains would soar due to lack of supply. Rice production could plummet by over 70%. Affordable staples would become luxuries. This crisis is preventable if we reassure migrant workers that they are valued and safe doing this essential work by informing them of legal visa programs and work authorizations.