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.
