As it stands right now, farm workers in the US are exempt from the minimum wage laws. I am not exactly sure why this is true, but I believe it has historic origins. I have heard that it is difficult for some to live on the minimal wage, so I must assume it is even more difficult to live on less than minimal wage.
What would it mean to us if this was corrected? The prices of some fruits and vegetables that are hand-picked might increase several times. Some items might completely disappear from the market. Some small farmers, that could not "automate", might be forced out of business or forced to switch crops. This would result in a further price rise as some products may become more scarce. A quick trip to your local tractor dealer will give you an idea of the amount of capital you need to invest in a large tractor and the needed attachments in order to automate, and not all crops can be automated.
On the positive side, our young people could have their first work experience in a field with fresh air rather than flipping burgers. Of course, they might be subjected to the weather, the pesticide and herbicide residues, or perhaps just the dangers of working with the natural world like say, the poisons of tobacco plants. Going to work at sun-up and using their muscles all day long would probably make them less likely to cause any mischief in the evening and they could also save money as they would not need gym memberships. I'm just guessing that the average family food bill would double or triple but maybe some money could be made up by altering some provisions of the farm bill? What do you think? Would you be willing to pay an amount closer to the "real price" for your food to create more desireable jobs?
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This one almost got lost!!!
OK, opinions are like noses, everybody has one. Since I cited no references, someone could at least dispute my "facts". Come on, Speak Up. We can't just ignore this topic forever, or can we?