If you’re getting sick of the rules during the pandemic, you’re not alone. Even our government representatives are tired of it.
“We’re in this job because we like people,” said U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta-D, CA, during a session at the United Fresh Produce Association’s BB #:145458 virtual Washington Conference, Sept. 24.
“Doing it virtually takes a lot out of the job,” he said from his office.
“It’s hard to build relationships without interaction,” said U.S. Representative Rodney Davis, R-IL. “We’re working hard to make sure this isn’t the new normal. I’ve had COVID-19, picked it up somewhere in the district, and after 10 days, I was fine.”
A large part of attendees’ experience at the annual event is lobbying their members of the House and Senate, and this year that has to be virtual.
Both Panetta and Davis said it’s still important for produce industry members to tell their stories, struggles and challenges in virtual meetings.
“We still need to hear from you and your issues,” Davis said. “We need to understand what agriculture looks like in order to lead agriculture policy in this country.”
Panetta and Davis are on the House Agriculture Committee.
United Fresh has virtual Hill visits with Congress members scheduled through next week.
