Ranchers warn immigration crackdown could send beef prices even higher

ORLANDO, Fla. — Ranchers and cattle industry groups in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas are warning that increased immigration enforcement is disrupting the beef supply chain, and could mean higher prices for consumers already paying more at the grocery store.

The Texas Cattle Feeders Association, Kansas Livestock Association and Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association issued a joint statement saying U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations are having what they called a “massive chilling effect” on the workforce supporting the cattle industry.

The groups say disruptions have affected feedyards, processors, transportation hubs and other businesses tied to the beef supply chain.