Federal judge says the Labor Department overstepped on H-2A labor rules

Ag groups are praising a federal judge who says the Labor Department overstepped while making H-2A labor rules.

The decision surrounds newly enacted rules targeting H-2A workers, including allowing them to unionize. The judge says the Labor Department did not explain why it was changing those regulations, thus making it unconstitutional. Another judge previously stopped the rule in 17 other states.

In response, the American Farm Bureau’s Zippy Duvall says, “Farmers appreciate the dedicated men and women who choose to work on their farms, and they take seriously the responsibility of ensuring a safe workplace. Farm Bureau agrees that workers should be treated fairly and respectfully. We also believe fairness to farmers is important and the d-o-l rule was overly broad to the point of being unlawful.”

Related Stories
The Louisiana Farm Bureau has made 2024 a year for change and advocacy. The state’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Club recently met with congressional delegates on the issues affecting their employees and operations.