KLA is closely monitoring U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity affecting agricultural communities in southwest Kansas and worked with livestock organizations in neighboring states to communicate the impacts of these actions to federal officials.
In a joint statement released yesterday (9/24), KLA, the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association and Texas Cattle Feeders Association said that while respecting the responsibility of federal agencies to enforce the law, the livestock industry and other rural businesses depend on a stable workforce to care for animals and keep supply chains operating. The sudden workforce disruptions caused by ICE has led to numerous chokepoints in the system. Reports have included thousands of fed cattle delayed in shipping to processors, resulting in millions of dollars in lost revenue and additional costs. Workforce disruptions also have affected feedyards, dairies, processors, feed and grain businesses, transportation and other critical services in rural communities.
The livestock associations have urged federal officials to quickly conduct enforcement actions in a lawful, targeted and transparent manner, while respecting due process and communicating clearly with affected employers and communities. KLA will continue to communicate members’ concerns on this issue.
To view the full statement, click here.