New Agriculture Wage Rate Rule Important Step in Reform

A new wage rate rule for agricultural guestworkers takes a much-needed step towards reforming regulations that have put labor out of reach for many of America’s farmers. The Department of Labor announced a new rule that revises agriculture wage rates for all 50 states and Puerto Rico. AFBF President Zippy Duvall said, “For many farmers, prices for the products they raise are low while production expenses are at record highs, so a fair wage rate is essential. In most states, the new rates will help farmers afford to get crops from the fields to the tables of America’s families.” “This new rule holds promise for many farm families who would be out of business if not for the H-2A program. We look forward to working with the administration to ensure more transparency, predictability and clarity as it implements the rule, and we remain committed to working with Congress for more lasting reforms that provide mutual benefit for workers and farmers.”

Source: AFBF