H-2A
USDA session tackles H-2A, labor shortages
To combat increasing labor shortages, growers are adapting labor-saving technology and modifying their cultivation practices, including lessening and delaying pruning and weeding. The gravity of the crisis was highlighted in a session at the Feb.... more »
Prepare for inevitable H-2A audit
In the waning days of the lame-duck session of Congress, there was still hope in some corners of the fruit and vegetable industry that legislators would include immigration and ag labor in the omnibus bill.... more »
DOL issues H-2A wage rule, ag groups voice displeasure
The Department of Labor issued its new rule for determining wages for ag workers in the H-2A temporary visa program, and industry groups were quick to voice their displeasure with the new rule. The National... more »
How is the labor situation affecting your operation?
The Vegetable Growers News is seeking input from growers on the labor situation in the U.S. with a survey. It’s a hot-button issue for all areas of agriculture, but it’s become of critical concern in... more »
PickTrace labor management expands services
A labor management company that offers fresh produce industry growers a digital solution for time, attendance and productivity tracking of employees has expanded services to ease hiring and payment processes. PickTrace, Glendale, California, first offered... more »
FFVA comments on rising farm labor rates
Noting expected hikes in Florida farm labor rates, the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association is weighing in on how growers are being affected by rising labor costs. Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released... more »
IFPA calls H-2A wages an ‘assault’ on produce industry
The International Fresh Produce Association is projecting an almost 7% average increase pay rates for workers in the H-2A program, based on the recent release of the annual U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Labor Survey... more »
Ag labor group sues to halt H-2A changes
The National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) has filed a legal challenge to changes in the H-2A program. The lawsuit alleges that the Department of Labor has “unlawfully repealed a final rule duly issued, prescribed... more »
Penn State to offer growers help with H-2A changes
With significant program regulations changes coming in 2023 for users of H-2A labor, Penn State Extension is planning a webinar to inform growers of the changes. Through a Dec. 13 Zoom webinar, Penn State labor... more »
NCAE sets Ag Labor Forum agenda
The National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) has set the agenda for its 9th Annual Ag Labor Forum. The forum will be Nov. 30-Dec. 2 at the M Resort near Las Vegas. “This year’s event... more »
