IFPA Welcomes H-2A Rulemakings from DOL, DHS

October 1, 2025

Washington, DC — The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) today welcomed the Department of Labor’s interim final rule revising the methodology for calculating the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for H-2A agricultural workers.

The new methodology replaces the USDA Farm Labor Survey with state-level data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey and establishes two skill-based wage categories within each occupational classification. DOL projects that the new framework will save employers an estimated $2.3 billion annually in labor costs.

In addition, IFPA welcomed action from the Department of Homeland Security to streamline certain H-2A application procedures, another reform long advocated by the association to reduce administrative burdens and improve program efficiency.

IFPA issued the following statement:

“The DOL’s interim final rule represents an historic step forward in creating a fairer, more predictable, and administratively workable process for setting H-2A wage rates. We are pleased to see that DOL incorporated many of the recommendations IFPA and our members have consistently provided to make the program more practical and sustainable so growers can participate without facing insurmountable barriers.  

“American agriculture depends on a reliable workforce, and today’s actions by both DOL and DHS represent meaningful progress toward ensuring farmers can continue to grow, harvest, and deliver fresh produce. We look forward to working with the agencies to ensure these changes are implemented effectively.” 

IFPA Welcomes H-2A Rulemakings from DOL, DHS

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