WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — Changes are coming to the way H-2A workers are paid, and the U.S. Dept of Labor says it could save farmers and ranchers more than $2 billion each year on ag labor costs.
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. That is a report the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) previously said would be phased out.
Instead, they will rely on the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They claim this will save farmers and ranchers around $2.5 billion each year. The National Council of Ag Employers praised the move, saying it would bring farm wages back to reality.
Visas for the H-2A program have proliferated in recent years. In 2012, only 90,000 were issued. Last year, that number approached 400,000. The International Fresh Produce Association is also on board, stating it is pleased that the Department of Labor has taken into account issues it has been warning about for years.
That rule has been entered into the Federal Register and is taking effect today.
As input costs continue to rise, diesel prices have held steady in recent weeks, according to energy analysts at GasBuddy.
September 25, 2025 12:02 PM
·
Farm legal and taxation expert Roger McEowen explains the IRS’s shift to electronic payments and disbursements, and what it means for upcoming tax filings.
September 24, 2025 05:09 PM
·
Industry-wide participation in SHIP enhances biosecurity and fosters global trust in U.S. pork, says swine health expert, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham.
September 24, 2025 03:32 PM
·
A new study by the National Grains and Feeds Association found that their industry generates $401.7 billion in economic output and supports over 1.16 million jobs nationwide.
September 24, 2025 02:41 PM
·
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
·
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
·
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
·
Herd rebuilding looks slow, keeping cattle prices supported; beef-on-dairy crosses help fill feedlots, while imports temper—but don’t erase—tightness.
September 23, 2025 01:32 PM
·
According to the most recent version of the Household Food Security Report for 2022-2023, food insecurity is on the rise in the U.S.
September 22, 2025 01:49 PM
·
