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South Carolina Agricultural Labor Forum Scheduled

South Carolina Department of Agriculture
Hugh E. Weathers, Commissioner

Media Contacts: Stephanie Sox, 803-734-2196, ssox@scda.sc.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 23, 2017

South Carolina Agricultural Labor Forum Scheduled

COLUMBIA- The South Carolina Department of Agriculture and South Carolina Farm Bureau Federation partnered together to co-sponsor the first ever South Carolina Agricultural Labor Forum, scheduled for February 28 from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the State Farmers Market in West Columbia.

“Many high-value crops grown in South Carolina require additional labor during harvest and farmers need access to a reliable work-force,” said Commissioner Hugh Weathers. “This forum will answer many questions farmers have about employing migrant labor and navigating the often burdensome regulations.”

The full-day program will provide agricultural employers practical guidance about wage and hour laws, worker protection standards and OSHA, immigration and I-9 compliance, H-2A guest worker programs and more. National and State experts on immigration and labor laws will bring updates on the effort to reform current immigration policies.

“The success of the South Carolina agriculture industry hinges on having a strong, dependable workforce,” responded SC Farm Bureau President Harry Ott. “We are excited to partner with the Department of Agriculture on this important topic and hope to better inform our farmers on processes involved in hiring and employing migrant labor.”

The forum will be held at the State Farmers Market Phillips Market Center located at 3483 Charleston Hwy, West Columbia. Registration cost is $50, which includes lunch. To register or for more information, contact Stacey McReynolds at (404) 240-4280 or smcreynolds@fisherphillips.com.

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South Carolina Agricultural Labor Forum Scheduled Press Release

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