We have repeatedly heard from farmers that labor is their most burdensome cost.
When it comes to the H-2A program, prevailing wage determinations are one of the many hurdles, especially when they result in increased rates.
Farm Bureau Associate Economist, Smantha Ayoub spoke with RFD-TV’s Tammi Arender about the H-2A program versus other guestworker programs and the impact on producer profits.
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The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.
Secretary Rollins also met with specialty crop producers at a local strawberry farm to discuss workforce needs and the Trump Administration’s recent wins related to significantly cutting the cost of H-2A labor for California farmers.
Farms and major food companies use AI to improve efficiency and forecast demand. Still, developers said that training AI for different uses is only possible with support from knowledgeable workers.
Transportation access, legal disputes, and fertilizer freight costs will directly influence input pricing and grain movement in 2026.