SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Through souring heat and aching feet, dozens of farmworkers lead by United Farm Workers Union President Teresa Romero said the hundreds of miles they are marching toward the state capital is worth it.

“All we’re asking with AB 2183 is that farmworkers would have the ability to vote for union representation in a safe way,” Romero said.

Currently, polling places are designated by the Agriculture Labor Relations Board, which can be where workers are employed. Many workers are undocumented and often feel intimidated by employers, according to Romero.

“(They tell me) I’m too afraid to ask that they pay me what they told me they were going to pay me. They’re stealing my wages, but I’m too afraid to ask because if I do, (the employer is) going to fire me.”

The bill would allow them to mail in their ballots. 

Opponents of the bill like the California Farmers Bureau, who represent farmers and growers, agree that intimidation from any side is wrong but believes the new provisions would create a way for union representatives to fill in ballots for the workers.

“The entire construction of the Ag labor relations board is designed to regulate employers and unions from intimidation. That’s why they have supervised election processes, that’s why they have unfair labor practice hearings,” said Jim Houston, the California Farm Bureau Administrator.

The bill has large support from lawmakers. It has already passed through the assembly.

Last year, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a very similar bill, saying it contained various inconsistencies and procedural issues. The UFW said they have been working with his office and have made compromises including a new five-year sunset clause added to the bill recently. Meaning mail-in voting and other provisions will expire in 2028 unless law makers vote to continue them. 

“He can say he is for the workers in this state but if he doesn’t sign the bill, it is proof that there is not support for workers in this state,” Romero said.

As the decision looms large on the marchers with this year’s legislative session days away from ending, they said they feel confident.

“We do feel sore and tired but like I said, our spirits are high,” Romero said.

And they vow to continue their fight for farmworkers, vetoed bill or not.