On Wednesday, October 12th, the Department of Labor published in the Federal Register the final rule amending H-2A temporary labor visas.  Secretary of Labor, Marty Walsh, stated, “Today’s new rule makes several improvements to enhance integrity of the H-2A program and provide employers and other stakeholders greater clarity.”  He added, “By improving H-2A program regulations, we are strengthening worker protection and meeting our core mission.”

New rules include improved safety and health protection for workers, strengthening bond requirements for labor contractors and to hold them accountable. The rules clarify housing certification and electronic filing for applications is mandated.

The amendments were proposed in 2019 with numerous agricultural associations, including the National Pork Producers Council responding with requests and suggestions during a 2021 Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.  Jen Sorenson, President of the NPPC, urged extension of H-2A visa allocations to allow for a dedicated year-round workforce.  The USDA has allocated $65 million to support the visa recipients from Central American nations under the seasonal H-2A visa program.