WASHINGTON — A bill heading to President Donald Trump’s desk would help address the shortage of agricultural inspectors.
Democratic Sen. Gary Peters co-sponsored the bill, which uses $19.6 million to hire more agricultural inspectors at America’s airports, seaports and land ports of entry.
“Every day, our customs and border protection cultural inspectors who process millions of pounds of fruits vegetables, and meat products; and examine thousands of shipping containers and passengers,” Peters said. “Their work prevents serious threats from crossing our borders harming the health and safety of millions of Americans, including Michiganders. Agricultural inspectors are our first line of defense against these threats that have the potential to devastate Michigan’s agricultural sector.”
Peters says the country has a shortage of staff to facilitate and secure efficient trade.
“Michigan farmers and producers work hard each and every day to grow the crops and food that are necessary to feed our country and the world,” Peters said. “But we have to protect them from threats by harmful diseases and invasive species and pests that invade our country through imported goods.”
Peters says this legislation will provide the backup and resources needed to protect Michigan’s agriculture industry.
