NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — New federal wage rules for H-2A visa farmworkers are addressing some long-standing problems but still leave key issues unresolved.
University of Georgia agricultural economists say the updated Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) system improves wage calculations but may still distort farm labor costs.
The U.S. Department of Labor shifted to a new system in 2025 that uses Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data instead of the Farm Labor Survey. This change moves wage calculations to the state level and introduces two pay tiers based on skill level, replacing broader regional averages under the old system.
The new approach helps correct geographic aggregation issues. However, wage data still relies heavily on unemployment insurance records, which often exclude farms and instead reflect farm labor contractors and support businesses.
Job-level differences also remain a concern. Wages for crop workers, livestock labor, and equipment operators are averaged together, even though they typically earn different pay rates. That can push wages above typical crop worker levels, which make up most H-2A jobs.
Farm-Level Takeaway: New wage rules improve accuracy but may still raise labor costs.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
January 20, 2026 12:25 PM
·
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
January 20, 2026 11:48 AM
·
Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
January 19, 2026 05:00 PM
·
Strong balance sheets still matter, but liquidity, planning, and lender relationships are critical as ag credit tightens, according to analysis from AgAmerica Lending.
January 19, 2026 03:00 PM
·
Protein-driven dairy growth is boosting beef supply potential, creating an opening to support rural jobs and ground beef availability.
January 19, 2026 01:00 PM
·
In a landmark ruling delivered in late 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court significantly narrowed the scope of the National Environmental Policy Act.
January 19, 2026 11:25 AM
·
