Department of Labor Reopens H-2A Processing Amid Government Shutdown
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has reopened its H-2A application operations even as the federal government shutdown continues. This critical development arrives at an important time for growers across the Southeast, who are preparing for the current harvest season and beginning to secure H-2A agricultural workers for the spring 2026 season.
“He has reopened the operation to process H-2A applications even though the government is shut down. This development comes at a critical time for growers in the southeast who are preparing their this season’s as well as securing H-2A workers for the spring of 2026.”
By restoring H-2A processing, the Department of Labor will help prevent further costly delays, minimize labor shortages, and provide greater stability for farms in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and across the southeastern U.S.
“The reopening of the Department of Labor’s application process system will help prevent further costly delays. It will also minimize potential labor shortages and provide much needed stability for farms across the state in the southeast.”
The Trump administration’s decision to resume H-2A labor certification processing not only supports local agricultural industries but also reinforces the nation’s broader food supply chain, which depends heavily on a reliable flow of seasonal farm labor.
“This action by the Trump administration not only supports Georgia and Florida and Alabama agriculture but also strengthens the broader food supply chain that depends on this reliable flow of farm labor.”
Agricultural leaders are expressing gratitude for the move. The National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) was recognized for its leadership and advocacy in helping ensure the reopening of the application process.
“We extend our appreciation to the National Council of Agricultural Employees for its leadership and adequacy in addressing this issue about labor.”
The H-2A labor program plays a vital role in helping U.S. farmers meet seasonal labor needs when domestic workers are unavailable. The Department’s decision to resume application processing provides hope for farmers who rely on H-2A workers to plant, cultivate, and harvest crops that sustain the nation’s food system.
“H-2A labor reopens their process and that should help provide some labor for our farmers coming up in this season and also in 2026.”
As growers begin planning for the 2026 agricultural season, this reopening marks a positive step toward restoring stability and ensuring that farms have the workforce they need to keep America’s agricultural economy moving forward.
Audio Reporting by Tyron Spearman for Southeast AgNet.