Agriculture officials seek access to migrant labor

"They're not taking your job," he said. "They're outcompeting you. Why would we protect from non-productivity?"

Wright said the compact requires applicants to go through "a number of hoops," including checks by the FBI and proof you can pay your living and medical expenses. Individuals can also only stay in the state while they're working.

"It's not our intent to give citizenship, naturalization or anything else," he said. "We have to have a starting point. This is not the end, this is the beginning."

The Utah Compact was also praised for the emphasis it places on families and its humanity, its understanding of the bond between worker and farmer. More than anything, though, it paves a way for the legal workforce that is so dearly needed.

"These are jobs with great importance to America," Gasperini said. "These people literally feed us. If we want to feed Americans with food produced in America, we need to keep our workforce."

The representatives' ultimate recommendation must be offered to the NASDA board of directors for approval. It will be finalized and presented to the board today.

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