Trump Admin Targets NOAA and Farm Labor Policy

The Trump administration is advancing significant policy changes affecting both farm labor and weather forecasting. A proposed $2 billion cut to NOAA's budget has raised concerns among experts about weakening hurricane forecasting and public safety, though the administration claims essential services will remain intact. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and President Trump reaffirm there will be no amnesty for undocumented farmworkers, and mass deportations will proceed but be managed to avoid disrupting the food supply. Rollins suggests millions of able-bodied Medicaid recipients could fill farm labor gaps, supported by new federal work requirements set to begin by 2026, though critics note most Medicaid recipients are already employed or unable to do such work. The administration is also promoting automation and broader reform in immigration and labor policy as long-term solutions. Despite objections from industry leaders over potential labor shortages and crop losses, the administration maintains its firm position.