Ag labor is another challenge for farmers and ranchers this year, but it is not a new issue.
One ag lawmaker from the Pacific Northwest is calling for “common-sense” reforms to the H-2A program and believes President Trump will deliver.
“The agricultural industry supported President Trump very strongly. He understands the issues of food security and that having a national, American food supply system is of utmost importance. Many of the things that he promised during his campaign line up exactly with the things that we are trying to accomplish as it relates to the workforce in the United States,” said Rep. Dan Newhouse.
For the second year in a row, H-2A visas grew by less than 2 percent across the country during 2024. Sixteen states saw a drop in H-2A workers, including Florida, California, and Michigan. The American Farm Bureau says costs and regulatory burdens are to blame.
Todd Miller, CEO of Head Honchos, shares about his business offering to ease agricultural labor shortages.
October 17, 2025 04:02 PM
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AFBF Associate Economist Samantha Ayoub joins us to dive into H-2A visa program changes and what can be done to ease the pressure on producers.
October 09, 2025 12:11 PM
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In a final rule published in the Federal Register, the Department states that it will no longer base wage rates on the Farm Labor Survey.
October 02, 2025 11:20 AM
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Farmers should anticipate continued upward pressure on farm labor costs and monitor policy changes that may further impact hiring decisions.
September 24, 2025 01:01 PM
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What is it like working cattle with an outbreak of New World Screwworm so close to home? Wayne Cockrell, with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, joined us on Wednesday to discuss.
September 24, 2025 12:29 PM
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U.S. produce growers face a structural disadvantage—cheaper imports driving down prices while rising labor costs squeeze margins. Without new policies or technology, profitability remains uncertain.
September 23, 2025 04:09 PM
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