USDA Plan Clarifying H-2A Access Welcomed by Dairy Group

On Thursday, the National Milk Producers Federation praised new federal guidance clarifying how dairy farms can use the H-2A program, calling it a step toward addressing long-standing labor challenges in the industry.  The group said dairy producers have long sought access to H-2A, which has traditionally been limited to seasonal work, leaving year-round operations with fewer options.

“Dairy farmers appreciate the new clarification released by the Trump administration outlining how dairy operations may use the H-2A agricultural worker program,' said NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud.  "The dairy industry has long sought access to the H-2A program, and this guidance will help open the door for dairies to begin using this program. We applaud secretaries Rollins and Mullin and acting Secretary Sonderling for their proactive leadership on this issue and look forward to learning more about these important new changes.

“NMPF pledges to work with both Congress and the administration to secure long-term certainty for the dairy workforce, including solutions to transition to H-2A, which will ensure that dairies across the nation are set up to thrive, boosting rural communities and providing Americans and the world with high-quality, nutritious products.”

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