Arizona politician fights for farm workers’ safety amid record heat wave

ARIZONA – In the wake of a tragic incident, an Arizona politician is calling for action to protect the state’s farm workers from extreme heat. Arizona State Representative Mariana Sandoval (D-Arizona) is advocating for extreme heat protections following the death of a Yuma farmworker.
25-year-old Dario Mendoza died after collapsing in a Yuma agricultural field last week during a record heat wave. Mendoza leaves behind his partner and two children.
Sandoval, who represents Yuma at the state capitol, is calling on the Arizona House and Senate to pass legislation to protect all workers, including agricultural workers, from extreme heat by mandating standards for adequate rest, hydration, and shade.
“Mr. Mendoza’s tragic passing is a sign that our state is failing farmworkers, who are not only the backbone of our agricultural sector, but who are also valued and cherished members of our community,” stated Rep. Sandoval.
The proposed legislation comes at a time when Arizona is experiencing record-breaking heat. The month of July 2023 has seen temperatures of 110º or hotter every single day, marking a record-setting 31 days in a row of extreme heat.
Despite the urgency of the situation, the bill may face resistance. Critics argue that the regulations could be onerous and ineffective, potentially hindering economic progress. However, proponents of the bill argue that the health and safety of workers should be a priority, especially in light of the increasing temperatures due to climate change.
As the debate continues, the fate of Arizona’s farm workers hangs in the balance. With temperatures continuing to rise, the need for protective measures becomes increasingly urgent. The proposed legislation represents a significant step towards safeguarding the health and wellbeing of Arizona’s farm workers.The proposed legislation comes at a time when Arizona is experiencing record-breaking heat. The month of July 2023 has seen temperatures of 110º or hotter every single day, marking a record-setting 31 days in a row of extreme heat.
Despite the urgency of the situation, the bill may face resistance. Critics argue that the regulations could be onerous and ineffective, potentially hindering economic progress. However, proponents of the bill argue that the health and safety of workers should be a priority, especially in light of the increasing temperatures due to climate change.
As the debate continues, the fate of Arizona’s farm workers hangs in the balance. With temperatures continuing to rise, the need for protective measures becomes increasingly urgent. The proposed legislation represents a significant step towards safeguarding the health and wellbeing of Arizona’s farm workers.
–Jeremy Webb