"it is so, so important that we are having this type of conversation here in Washington, D.C."
"It is estimated that those changes, those proposals, will obviously negatively impact over a million people..."
"these proposals are not just kicking people off the program, they are scaring people away from participating in SNAP"
"the number one issue, I believe, is labor, and we are hearing that not just on the Central Coast, but in the center of America all the way to the East Coast."
"we are going to be introducing the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, a bill that not only protects our existing workforce, but makes it easier to have an enduring workforce here in this country."
"the labor is probably the number one issue we deal with in all seven states that we farm."
"we rely on people to come to this country, because no domestic workers will do that to harvest our crops."
"we are turning to mechanization, not to replace labor, but to replace the lack of labor."
"Outstanding. Now, obviously I wanted to show our appreciation in regards to the announcement yesterday by NIFA in regards to the 32 grants totaling $14.3 million--excuse me, 30 grants totaling $24."
"Do you believe that USDA needs $25 million of taxpayer money for a relocation that has already happened?"
"Obviously staffing is a big issue, and you know that."
"Now, obviously, and I know you have talked about deferred maintenance, and in Los Padres, our deferred maintenance exceeds $24 million."