Changes are coming to the H-2A labor program, and the Trump Administration hopes it will bring relief to American farmers.
In an interview with Fox Business, Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer says the labor program will now be fully under her department. It’s currently under the jurisdiction of the Departments of Labor, Homeland Security, and the State Department.
Chavez-DeRemer says consolidation will make the program faster and more affordable for farmers and ranchers. She notes most of the H-2A program’s heavy lifting is determined by Congress. There are also no plans to expand the program, and she says she will not give amnesty to undocumented laborers. Instead, she’ll make it more efficient.
Another focus will be on getting more Americans working on U.S. farms. Chavez-DeRemer tells Fox that they’ll never replace an American worker, but they want to ensure farmers have the staffing they need. She says it’s now up to Congress to determine just how many visas will be allowed in the program.
Agricultural exports continue to be a key contributor to rural employment. However, rural businesses still struggle to fill numerous job openings.
October 06, 2025 10:46 AM
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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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Secretary Rollins’ plan targets high costs, labor challenges, and export growth, delivering relief at home while building markets abroad.
September 26, 2025 10:18 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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Kevin Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance joined us Tuesday to share his perspective on farm safety and risk management during fall harvest.
September 23, 2025 04:33 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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