Florida tomato pickers to get higher wages under grower program announced this week

Tomato pickers to get higher wages under deal

MIAMI — Florida tomato growers have finally agreed to help pickers earn more by passing on extra wages offered by major food chains such as Burger King, Subway and Taco Bell.

For years the Florida Tomato Growers Exchange resisted calls by farmworker advocates to pass along an additional penny per pound for tomatoes picked. The Exchange even threatened to fine any members who took part. But this week it OK’d the idea and unveiled a new code of conduct for its members to ensure safe working conditions for the pickers. Exchange President Reggie Brown said discussions were under way with the chains to implement that plan.