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.
Hiring may ease slightly, but labor shortages remain persistent.
April 12, 2026 08:00 AM
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Reduced driver supply may increase freight costs this season.
April 09, 2026 12:38 PM
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New wage rules improve accuracy but may still raise labor costs.
April 08, 2026 06:00 AM
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As ag lawmakers in the Senate await the House vote on the Farm Bill, they are eager to discuss the challenges farmers face before it is their turn to take up the critical legislation.
March 26, 2026 04:29 PM
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The Trump Administration’s new rule limiting CDL renewals for immigrant truckers is seeing mixed reactions in agriculture. While some support the change, it is raising concerns about higher freight costs and impacts on U.S. grain export competitiveness.
March 19, 2026 02:35 PM
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The changing political climate in America is leading to a drop in migrant crossings near the U.S.-Mexico border, where ranchers like Dr. Mike Vickers say they witnessed horrors from death to child trafficking.
January 30, 2026 11:47 AM
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