The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has reopened a portion of its operations despite the ongoing federal government shutdown to process H-2A applications. As many agricultural producers begin preparing for the spring 2026 harvest, this reopening means that the DOL can now resume processing labor certification applications and prevailing wage determinations in the H-2A program.
This move is especially significant for seasonal growers across the country who rely 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 process prevailing wage determinations and labor certification applications during the lapse in appropriations. Western Growers Association+2Herman Legal Group+2
The Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA) issued a statement applauding this development:
“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.”
Similarly, the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA) commented:
“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, this resumption of H-2A labor certification processing is a clear signal to move quickly in planning and filing for their seasonal workforce needs. Key actions for agricultural employers now include:
- Begin preparing H-2A certification applications and prevailing wage determinations so that they align with the resumption of DOL operations.
- Consult with labor and immigration professionals to ensure compliance in a shifting regulatory landscape.
- Coordinate with associations such as FFVA and GFVGA to monitor updates and share best practices for submitting H-2A applications in the context of the shutdown.
In short, the DOL’s partial reopening for H-2A processing offers a valuable reprieve for growers anticipating the spring 2026 harvest. By taking immediate steps to engage with the H-2A program, agricultural employers can better secure the seasonal workforce they need to maintain operations and protect their share of the domestic food supply chain.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.