WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — A major win for the dairy industry came this week as producers gained access to the H-2A visa program, something the sector has sought for years.
The new guidance comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Departments of Labor and Homeland Security.
To qualify, dairy producers must demonstrate seasonal or temporary spikes in labor demand. Despite the change, dairy operators must first recruit and hire domestic workers before turning to H-2A visa holders.
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall welcomed the announcement, saying fewer Americans are choosing to work on farms while the need for qualified agricultural workers continues to grow.
Duvall called the move an important step forward but noted that more work remains to address ongoing labor challenges facing agriculture.
Alan Bjerga, with the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss the announcement and its implications for dairy producers facing ongoing labor shortages.
In his interview with RFD News, Bjerga discussed the latest guidance surrounding the program access and how it is expected to help dairy producers better manage workforce needs amid persistent labor constraints.
He emphasized that the move represents an important step for the industry after years of advocacy focused on expanding access to legal labor pathways for agricultural operations.
Bjerga also addressed considerations and requirements producers will need to understand under the updated guidance as they navigate participation in the program.
Finally, he shared additional priorities for the industry moving forward, even with the new labor access provisions in place.
