Government data shows U.S. retail egg prices have declined for the first time since October. The average price for a dozen Grade A eggs fell to $5.12 in April after reaching a record $6.23 in March, according to the Consumer Price Index released on Tuesday. The average price of eggs of all sizes fell 12.7%, which was the steepest monthly decline since March 1984. Still, U.S. egg prices remain near record highs as a persistent outbreak of bird flu continues to wipe out egg-laying hens. April's store price was 79% higher than a year earlier, when the retail price averaged $2.86 per dozen.
By FELICIA MELLO and WENDY FRY/CalMatters CalMatters
With a significant rise in the number of agricultural guest workers, California regulators have struggled to ensure that farms are providing safe housing for them. The state's Department of Housing and Community Development employs three inspectors to oversee all employer-provided dwellings. The department conducts routine housing inspections before workers move in, which makes it difficult to catch such issues as overcrowding. In a few cases, inspectors awarded permits to employer-provided housing after conducting a video call. Agency officials said increased state funding has allowed them to step up enforcement. They say more inspectors are being hired and that they are striking the appropriate balance between protecting workers and ensuring due process for businesses.