The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has reopened part of its operations during the ongoing federal government shutdown to process H-2A applications. The move allows the DOL to resume handling labor certification applications and prevailing wage determinations under the H-2A program, as agricultural producers begin preparing for the spring 2026 harvest.
The decision affects seasonal growers who depend on foreign temporary agricultural workers through the H-2A visa program when domestic labor is unavailable. According to industry sources, the DOL's Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) will continue to process prevailing wage determinations and labor certification applications despite the lapse in appropriations.
The Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA) welcomed the reopening, stating: "The Trump administration's swift decision to resume processing H-2A labor certifications during the shutdown demonstrates its commitment to supporting growers and ensuring domestic food security. This decisive action is essential for safeguarding Florida's vital agricultural production from potential crop loss and financial hardship, while also ensuring that growers have the workforce necessary to harvest fruits and vegetables that feed Americans through the winter months. FFVA thanks the administration, including Director Russell Vought and Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, for resuming this essential work, and U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart and other members of the Florida delegation for their leadership."
The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA) also issued a statement: "The reopening of the DOL's application processing system will help prevent further costly delays, minimize potential labor shortages, and provide much-needed stability for farms across the state. This action by the Trump Administration not only supports Georgia agriculture but also strengthens the broader food supply chain that depends on a reliable flow of farm labor. GFVGA extends sincere appreciation to the National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) for its leadership and advocacy in addressing this issue. NCAE's efforts played a vital role in ensuring that the Department of Labor resumed processing H-2A applications, benefiting agricultural employers nationwide."
For growers, the resumption of H-2A processing signals the need to move forward with planning and filing for seasonal labor. Agricultural employers are encouraged to begin preparing H-2A certification applications and wage determinations in line with DOL operations, seek compliance advice from labor and immigration professionals, and coordinate with industry associations to monitor updates and best practices.
The partial reopening provides an opportunity for farms to maintain workforce continuity ahead of the 2026 harvest season.
Source: AgNet
