Betsey Stevenson, a former Obama administration economist, has warned of potential food inflation if undocumented immigrant farm workers are deported, citing their significant role in American agriculture. This warning comes amid former President Trump’s plans for large-scale deportations and his controversial views on immigration.
Governor Janet Mills has vetoed three bills passed by the Maine Legislature, including measures to establish a minimum wage for farmworkers, regulate labor relations in the agricultural sector, and mandate water treatment for landfill leachate. Mills expressed concerns about the potential impact of these bills on farmers, citing financial burdens and regulatory complexities. She also voiced opposition to a private right of action provision in the minimum wage bill, arguing that such a mechanism would result in excessive litigation against farm owners. The vetoed bills may come up for a vote to override the governor’s decision later this month.
