JAY ROBBINS

Visited with U.S. House & Senate to discuss the Farm Bill, farm economy, and economic assistance payments.

Visited with U.S. House & Senate on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and had ArFB member to testify before the Senate Ag Committee to discuss issues facing agriculture.

Worked with Congressional delegation to support letter of recommendation to the incoming Trump Administration for certain politically appointed positions. Visited with members of Congress and regulatory agencies in Washington, D.C. to discuss issues facing agriculture.

Worked on letter with commodity groups to Congress urging meaningful improvements and advancing a farm bill in 2024 that addresses the farm safety net due to the deteriorating state of the farm economy.

International trade is critical to the continued success of U.S. agriculture regarding the rising agricultural trade deficit of $30 billion and loss of opportunities. We remain concerned that the recent farm trade deficit trend may be attributable in some regard to the proactive trade policies of our economic competitors. We reached out to Arkansas Congressional delegation by phone and email regarding rising agricultural trade deficit & loss of opportunities for U.S. Trade to sponsor letter to Department of Agriculture. Encouraging the expansion of exports through new trade agreements.

Average Effect Wage Rate (AEWR), which continues to financially burden our nation's agricultural producers who utilize the H-2A Temporary Agriculture Worker program (H2-A program). Any changes to the H-2A program should be subject to thorough and insightful action by Congress, not forced on producers by the executive branch.

Worked on letter with Congressional delegation urging H-2a relief to Congress. Regarding the annual adjustment to the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR). In 2024, the H-2A labor rates paid by agricultural employers have become more unaffordable. The new rates put further financial strain on farm operations of all sizes, urging H-2A wage freeze in upcoming funding legislation.