Advocacy Update on H-2A and AEWR

February 5, 2026

IFPA recently joined a national coalition led by the NC Chamber in filing an amicus brief in United Farm Workers, et al. v. U.S. Department of Labor, a case challenging the Department of Labor’s revised Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) methodology for the H-2A program.

This engagement reflects IFPA’s belief that labor policy should be data-driven, economically realistic, and grounded in real-world conditions, while continuing to protect U.S. workers and support domestic food production. Reliable access to labor is essential to sustaining U.S. agriculture, rural communities, and a stable supply of fruits, vegetables, and floral products.

The coalition’s brief urges the court to reject a request that could block the rule nationwide and disrupt planning for the 2026 growing season, after many employers have already received DOL-approved wage rates, secured financing, and begun hiring.

We will continue to keep members informed as this case develops and as IFPA advances advocacy aligned with our industry’s priorities.

Learn more about the case and coalition activity from the NC Chamber’s release.

Advocacy Update on H-2A and AEWR

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