Tag: h-2a

NCAE Welcomes Administration Action Expanding H-2A Access for Dairy Farmers, Calls on Congress to Follow President Trump’s Lead

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NCAE Welcomes Administration Action Expanding H-2A Access for Dairy Farmers, Calls on Congress to Follow President Trump’s Lead

The National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) celebrated President Trump’s administrative action clarifying that the dairy industry can further participate in the H-2A visa program. This long-overdue policy shift was announced in a statement from the Department of Agriculture which cited new guidance from the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Labor clarifying H-2A eligibility for the dairy industry. This guidance marks a significant victory for dairy farmers nationwide who have struggled under the constraints of a strictly seasonal program while managing year-round operations

“This is a welcomed policy change for our dairy members, and we are hopeful it is just the beginning of continued H-2A program expansion,” said John Hollay, NCAE President and CEO. “President Trump’s administration continues to take action to provide common sense solutions for American farmers in search of legal workers at a time when U. S. workers are not willing to do the job. By opening the door for the dairy industry to take advantage of the only legal program for foreign agricultural workers, President Trump continues to move us in a direction of needed reform.”

While celebrating this major administrative victory, NCAE emphasizes that the work is just beginning. Transitioning a sector like dairy into the H-2A program will require a robust, coordinated effort across the federal government. For the H-2A program to successfully accommodate this new influx of program users, the Department of Labor (DOL), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Department of State will require significant structural support and sufficient funding to ensure the program operates as intended for current and new users.

“For this expansion to succeed and the H-2A program to work as intended, our federal agencies must have the resources and regulatory structures necessary to handle the increased volume efficiently. NCAE looks forward to working with the administration and congressional leaders to ensure the H-2A program is reformed to meet the needs of all producers and that it receives the structural support required to protect our food supply chain. Furthermore, we hope this historic administrative step paves the way for further access for the dairy industry into the program, as well as parity among other vital agricultural industries, such as mushrooms, livestock, and controlled environment agriculture, who face similar year-round labor challenges and currently lack access to the program.”

“With the H-2A program now opening its doors to dairy operations, navigating the regulatory landscape will be a top priority for producers looking to utilize this benefit. NCAE stands ready to guide new dairy applicants through the complex H-2A program, offering the specialized expertise, advocacy, and compliance support needed to secure a stable workforce.”

The Idaho Dairymen’s Association, a key member of NCAE, also weighed in with appreciation for the administration’s action. “The Idaho Dairymen’s Association thanks the Trump Administration for the Guidance on Temporary or Seasonal Need for H-2A Petitions for Dairying just issued,” said Rick Naerebout, CEO of Idaho Dairymen’s Association. “The new guidance acknowledges the flexibility that Idaho dairy producers believe has existed on the definitions of temporary work periods and seasonal jobs in the H-2A visa program. While there is more work to be done to ease the farm labor crisis, this move can help dairy farmers keep food safe and affordable for all Americans.”

Dairy farmers and agricultural employers interested in navigating this new landscape are encouraged to join NCAE to access exclusive compliance resources and industry-leading guidance. For more information on membership, visit ncaeonline.org.

About NCAE

Founded in 1964, NCAE is the only national association focusing exclusively on agricultural labor issues from the agricultural employer’s viewpoint.

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NCAE Briefing Bridges Gap Between Farm Realities and Capitol Hill in Agricultural Labor Briefing

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NCAE Briefing Bridges Gap Between Farm Realities and Capitol Hill in Agricultural Labor Briefing

Yesterday, June 2, 2026, the National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) successfully hosted a special educational webinar titled “Fields, Farms, and the Hill: A Congressional Briefing on the State of Ag Labor.” The interactive webinar, co-hosted by Representative Dan Newhouse (WA-04) and Representative Donald G. Davis (NC-01), aimed to arm congressional staffers, agricultural leaders, and stakeholders with vital insights into the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Visa Program.

Led by Tom Bortnyk, Senior Vice President and General Counsel of másLabor, and moderated by NCAE President and CEO John Hollay, the session provided a deep dive into the practical administration of the program. A key focus of the discussion highlighted the common, real-world issues and complex casework challenges currently experienced by farmers and ranchers across the nation who rely on the H-2A program to sustain their operations.

“Effective policy does not evolve in a vacuum,” said John Hollay, NCAE’s President and CEO. “This briefing was a vital opportunity to connect Washington decision-makers and staffers with the actual terrain of American agriculture. By opening this direct line of communication with congressional offices, we are ensuring that future legislative and oversight efforts are grounded in the real-world experiences of agricultural employers.”

In addition to addressing day-to-day farm workforce realities, the briefing tackled the shifting regulatory landscape, including the Department of Labor’s Interim Final Rule and how congressional offices can best handle constituent inquiries.

Access the Webinar Recording

For those who were unable to attend the live event, a recording of the presentation is now available for Congressional staffers, agricultural policy advisors, NCAE membership, and the general public.

  • Watch the Recap: You can view the full webinar recording on YouTube by filling out a brief form here: ncaeonline.org/resources/webinars/.
  • Additional Resources: For more updates and information regarding agricultural labor advocacy, visit the NCAE website at ncaeonline.org.

About NCAE

Founded in 1964, NCAE is the only national association focusing exclusively on agricultural labor issues from the agricultural employer’s viewpoint.

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NCAE to Co-Host H-2A Visa Program Briefing for Congressional Staff

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NCAE to Co-Host H-2A Visa Program Briefing for Congressional Staff

“Fields, Farms, and the Hill: 

A Congressional Briefing on the State of Ag Labor”

The National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) is pleased to announce a special installment of its educational webinar series which will arm congressional staffers with the critical information they need to know about the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Visa Program and current casework challenges that farmers and workers are experiencing.

On Tuesday June 2, 2026, from 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m. Eastern, NCAE will host “Fields, Farms, and the Hill: A Congressional Briefing on the State of Ag Labor.” The webinar will be co-hosted by Representative Dan Newhouse (WA-04) and Representative Donald G. Davis (NC-01).  The interactive webinar will be led by Tom Bortnyk, Senior Vice President and General Counsel of másLabor and moderated by John Hollay, NCAE’s President and CEO. Tom will walk staffers through all aspects of the program, challenges offices are facing regarding constituent casework, the Department of Labor’s Interim Final Rule, and how staffers can best be prepared to handle legislative inquiries from agricultural employers.

“The H-2A program is a lifeline for America’s farmers and ranchers, providing the essential legal workforce necessary to sustain our agricultural operations and secure our national food supply,” said Hollay. “Because agricultural labor policy is heavily regulated and increasingly complex, it is imperative that congressional staffers understand the day-to-day intricacies of this program. Staffers are often the first point of contact for constituent casework and play a crucial role in shaping policy. Their active engagement and deep understanding of the H-2A program are vital to fostering a system that truly works for agricultural employers and the communities they support.”

As the agricultural sector continues to face unprecedented workforce challenges and shifting regulatory landscapes, this briefing aims to bridge the gap between the realities on the farm and the policy discussions happening on Capitol Hill.

The webinar will begin at 1:00 PM ET/10:00 AM PT on Thursday, June 2, 2026. This briefing is open to all congressional staff. Recordings of the webinar presentation will be available to agricultural policy advisors, and key stakeholders interested in the future of agricultural labor upon the conclusion of the webinar. Additional information, including registration details, is available on the NCAE website at ncaeonline.org.

About NCAE

Founded in 1964, NCAE is the only national association focusing exclusively on agricultural labor issues from the agricultural employer’s viewpoint.

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Exciting News: Federal Officials Announce Their Participation in NCAE’s Ag Labor Forum

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Exciting News: Federal Officials Announce Their Participation in NCAE’s Ag Labor Forum

(Arlington, VA) U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer and U.S. Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden have confirmed their participation in the National Council of Agricultural Employers’ 2025 Ag Employer Labor Forum. The Forum takes place this December 3-5th at the beautiful and newly expanded M Resort, just outside Las Vegas, NV.

“We are incredibly proud that the regulatory community understands how critical it is to have their participation at this event,” shared Michael Marsh, NCAE’s President and CEO. “America’s farmers and ranchers deserve an engaged community of regulators and policy makers, and we are thrilled to provide this opportunity to our Labor Forum attendees so they can do just that.”

NCAE recently released a blockbuster lineup for the 2025 Labor Forum, reflecting the Council’s fervent commitment to providing members and the wider farming and ranching community with cutting-edge knowledge and resources so that they can make the best business decisions to sustain their agricultural operations, American agriculture, and family farms and ranches for generations to come.

“We are excited,” noted Marsh, “to join with our members and America’s great agricultural community to delve into and discuss the things many employers need to know to protect and keep their farms and ranches successful for this generation and generations we hope to follow. This event has become a cornerstone for America’s agricultural employers, and with all the activity in the community over the past few months, engagement at this event has never been more important.”

“This year’s Forum features a compelling range of topics that have America’s agricultural community excited,” noted Marsh. “Attendees will enjoy our engaging expert sessions and speakers who will guide the audience through deep depths while they examine a wide breadth of agricultural topics.”

This Forum offers an incredible diversity of ag labor leaders and legal experts to unpack the complex regulatory and legislative web in which agricultural employers find themselves.

Day One is all about action: Attendees will learn what’s next for ag employers and how to effectively fight for a brighter future. The essential session, “Canaries in the Coal Mine,” moderated by Ryan Ayres (Director of Human Resources for FirstFruits Farms), features agricultural leaders discussing challenges agricultural employers are experiencing at the hands of out-of-control state governments. Then, Joel Anderson (NCAE Executive Committee Chairman and owner of Anderson Immigration Law) hosts the fireside chat, “Going on Offense,” with Kimberly Hermann (President of Southeastern Legal Foundation) to map out a proactive litigation strategy for farmers and ranchers.

NCAE’s marquee session, “Eye of the Storm,” will take place on Day Two of the Forum. This session will examine the Department of Labor’s recently announced Interim Final Rule (IFR).

This marquee session will bring together a panel with national expertise and insights, including Jamie Fussell (Director of Labor Relations at Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association), Alexandra E. Hill (Assistant Professor at University of California, Berkeley), Chris Schulte Partner at Fisher Phillps), Phil Martin (Professor Emeritus of Agricultural and Resource Economics at University of California, Davis), Samantha Ayoub (Economist at American Farm Bureau Federation), and Shawn Packer (Partner at JPH Law).

Together, the panel of agricultural experts will dissect the impact of the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) Interim Final Rule (IFR) and provide their thoughts about what the future holds for the IFR and American agriculture. The IFR, published on October 2, 2025, modifies the methodology used to calculate the AEWR. The Department estimated the new methodology will save American farmers and ranchers $2.46 billion and $17.29 billion over 10 years.

Later that afternoon, attendees will have the option to choose between a variety of engaging breakout sessions that touch on an incredible breadth of topics. Forum sessions include an interactive H-2A compliance workshop, a facilitated discussion focused on taking charge of the agricultural narrative, an examination of the challenges and opportunities that artificial intelligence (AI) present for the agricultural industry, an H-2A Tax Clinic, sessions on best practices and advanced strategies for ag employers, and much, much more.

Attendees of these stimulating sessions, along with many others throughout the Forum, are eligible to receive continuing education credit from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

The blockbuster event will conclude with insights and remarks from even more blockbuster speakers. On the third and final day of the Forum, attendees will have the opportunity to interact with representatives from the federal agencies involved in regulating the agricultural community.

As mentioned above, NCAE’s Labor Forum will proudly host two high-ranking officials representing the Trump Administration. U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer recently confirmed her participation in this critical event. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden will engage with attendees to deliver essential updates and insights that are shaping the future of America’s farming and ranching community.

Likewise, attendees will have the opportunity to have their questions answered by a wide and varied array of representatives with extensive H-2A insights. Dan Armenise, a Policy Advisor with the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, and team members from Mission Mexico, will engage in an interactive discussion with agricultural employers about State’s role in the H-2A program and what farmers and ranchers can do to facilitate smoother processing. Ruben Rosalez, the Western Region Administrator for Wage and Hour, will also participate.

“With all the ongoing activity in the agricultural labor space,” noted Marsh, “this year’s Forum is a must-attend event.”

Ag Employer Labor PAC – Cultivating Agricultural Champions:

The Ag Employer Labor PAC will host a dinner on December 2, 2025, the evening prior to the start of the NCAE Ag Employer Labor Forum. The PAC aims to grow and cultivate relationships with Members of Congress interested in championing the agricultural community.

Attendees will enjoy a private, upscale, donors-only dinner at Hostile Grape, the luxurious and excusive wine cellar at the M Resort accompanied by wonderful wine, delicious food, live music, spectacular surprises, and a special guest speaker who is sure to enthrall, engage and expand the horizons for all who attend.  This year, attendees will also have a chance to win an exciting array of prizes including an overnight stay, golf, and dinner at a luxurious location and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to ring the cowbell to start the Forum.

The PAC dinner will is held and ticketed separately from the Labor Forum. Attendees of the Forum are encouraged to consider whether they might wish to take part in this exclusive and entertaining evening focused on improving the outlook for ag employers nationwide and cultivating champions for ag labor issues in the Congress.

Individuals may indicate their interest by accessing the PAC Dinner registration page. 

Contributions to the Ag Employer Labor PAC are non-deductible for income tax purposes and may not include contributions made by nor on behalf of a corporation.

Forum Registration & Room Block:

To secure your spot at the Forum and take advantage of discounted room rates at the M Resort, visit NCAE’s Labor Forum registration page today.

About NCAE:

NCAE is the national trade association focusing on agricultural labor issues from the employer’s viewpoint.

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NCAE Releases Blockbuster Agenda for 2025 Forum

| Press Release, Uncategorized

 

NCAE Releases Blockbuster Agenda for 2025 Forum

(Arlington, VA) The National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) released a blockbuster agenda for the highly anticipated Ag Employer Labor Forum taking place this December 3-5, 2025. This year’s Forum will be held at the magnificent and newly expanded M Resort just outside of Las Vegas, Nevada.

NCAE’s Labor Forum is the premier event for ag employers nationwide, where farmers, ranchers, ag labor leaders and others in the agricultural community convene to learn, develop, and advance a shared vision for a resilient and successful U.S. food system that will allow America’s farm and ranch families to do what they do best—grow food and fiber to feed and clothe America and the world.

“Attendees at this year’s Labor Forum have an incredible opportunity to learn from key agricultural leaders, engage with economic experts, and to work together alongside some of the best legal and legislative minds to help shape the future of ag labor in the United States,” stated NCAE President and CEO, Michael Marsh. “We are proud to present a spectacular selection of stimulating and provocative speakers who will discuss timely topics for employers and those involved in ag labor.”

“NCAE is proud to reveal our agenda for the 2025 Forum,” continued Marsh. “This agenda reflects the Council’s commitment to providing our members and the wider farming and ranching community with cutting-edge knowledge and resources so that they can make the best business decisions to sustain their agricultural operations, American agriculture, and family farms and ranches for generations to come. It has never been more important for farmers and ranchers to engage in these important topics so that they can protect themselves, their farms, and their critical farmworkers.”

This year’s Forum features a compelling range of topics that takes the pivotal moment facing American agriculture on by the proverbial horns. Attendees will enjoy engaging sessions hosted by expert economists who will examine the outlook for Farm Labor in 2026 and the impacts of farmworker overtime.

Likewise, attendees will have opportunities to engage with legislative leaders and ag labor icons who will delve deeply into the topics that farmers and ranchers need to know for upcoming seasons. Among many, many other sessions, attendees will enjoy engaging sessions featuring Business Succession Strategies, Strategic Litigation Strategies for American agriculture, and NCAE’s special “Eye of the Storm” session during which economists, thought leaders and legal experts will unpack what the Department of Labor’s recently announced Interim Final Rule (IFR) has in store for the agricultural community.

Similarly, NCAE’s hit concurrent breakout sessions are back again this year with a captivating list of topics. Attendees have the opportunity choose from a diverse range of activities and sessions such as an interactive H-2A compliance workshop, a facilitated discussion focused on taking charge of the agricultural narrative, an examination of the challenges and opportunities that artificial intelligence (AI) present for the agricultural industry, an H-2A Tax Clinic, sessions on best practices and advanced strategies for ag employers, and much, much more.

Attendees of these stimulating sessions, along with many others throughout the Forum, are eligible to receive continuing education credit from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

“With all the ongoing activity and recent wins for employers in the agricultural labor space,” noted Marsh, “this year’s Forum is a must-attend event.”

The full agenda and registration details are available at:  https://www.ncaeonline.org/events/ag-employer-labor-forum/

Sponsorship Opportunities:

NCAE is excited to offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities for organizations looking to showcase their fervent support of America’s agricultural community, gain exposure among leaders of the  agricultural industry, and connect with the hundreds of in-person ag employers, agents, attorneys and others at who will attend this year’s Forum.

“Last year,” noted Marsh, “NCAE was thrilled to receive record interest in our trade show, resulting in a completely sold-out exhibition space and an extended trade show floor. We are on trend to do so again for 2025. NCAE’s Labor Forum trade show is an incredible opportunity for those interested in connecting and networking with hundreds of attendees and critical organizational decisionmakers.”

While space is increasingly limited, sponsorships remain available for all who wish to engage in this important event at every level. Space in the main trade show area is expected to sell out. Sponsors who are interested in increasing their level to secure an earlier chance at choosing their booth are encouraged to contact NCAE immediately.

Interested parties are encouraged to contact Susan Lester, [email protected], for sponsorship details.

Ag Employer Labor PAC – Cultivating Agricultural Champions:

The Ag Employer Labor PAC will host a dinner on December 2, 2025, the evening prior to the start of the NCAE Ag Employer Labor Forum. The PAC aims to grow and cultivate relationships with Members of Congress interested in championing the agricultural community.

Attendees will enjoy a private, upscale, donors-only dinner at Hostile Grape, the luxurious and exclusive wine cellar at the M Resort accompanied by wonderful wine, delicious food, live music, spectacular surprises, and a special guest speaker who is sure to enthrall, engage and expand the horizons for all who attend.  This year, attendees will also have a chance to win an exciting array of prizes including an overnight stay, golf, and dinner at a luxurious location and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to ring the cowbell to start the Forum.

The PAC dinner will is held and ticketed separately from the Labor Forum. Attendees of the Forum are encouraged to consider whether they might wish to take part in this exclusive and entertaining evening focused on improving the outlook for ag employers nationwide and cultivating champions for ag labor issues in the Congress.

Individuals may indicate their interest by accessing the PAC Dinner registration page.  Contributions to the Ag Employer Labor PAC are non-deductible for income tax purposes and may not include contributions made by nor on behalf of a corporation.

Forum Registration & Room Block:

NCAE’s 2025 Labor Forum will be hosted at the magnificent and newly expanded M Resort located just outside of Las Vegas, NV. NCAE members and attendees of the Forum are invited to join NCAE’s discounted room block at the M Resort which will close on November 17, 2025, or once the room block is full. We expect the room block to sell out well in advance. To secure your spot at the Forum and take advantage of discounted room rates at the M Resort, visit NCAE’s Labor Forum registration page today.

About NCAE:

NCAE is the national trade association focusing on agricultural labor issues from the employer’s viewpoint.

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