New Law Benefits Farmworkers: Newsom Signs Law Making it Easier to Join a Union

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It was not an easy task. But for agricultural workers, accustomed to a hard day’s work, without rest, it was not impossible.
Marching from Delano, the capital of the farm organization founded by Cesar Chavez, they camped outside the state capitol to put pressure on Gov. Gavin Newsom will sign a law that will make it easier for agricultural laborers to join unions, a hard-fought win for the United Farm Workers.
They were not alone. President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and other influential politicians and activists pressured Newsom to pass it.
“California’s farmworkers are the lifeblood of our state, and they have the fundamental right to unionize and advocate for themselves in the workplace,” he said in a statement announcing his signature. “California is proud to stand with the next generation of leaders carrying on this movement.”
In response, the UFW tweeted out of a photo of farmworkers and supporters marching up the San Joaquin Valley in the hot sun alongside Highway 99. “Gov. Newsom has signed AB 2183,” the tweet read. “Sí, sí se puede.”
The new law expands voting options for farmworkers by allowing them to vote by mail or drop off a ballot card at the state Agricultural Labor Relations Board. Farmworkers can also receive assistance filling out their ballots. Previously, secret ballot elections were held at a polling place designated by the board.