NASHVILLE, TN – According to a recent report from AgAmerica, proposed changes to the H-2A farmworker visa program could help ease ongoing labor shortages and boost farm loan potential. Current rules, rising enforcement, and high compliance costs have kept participation low—only around 10% of the ag workforce uses the H-2A program.
Labor shortages are driving some farms to operate with up to 60% fewer workers during peak seasons. AgAmerica says these disruptions raise production risks and make it harder to secure financing. The Department of Labor recently created a new office to streamline visa applications, pause certain regulations, and improve turnaround times.
In tandem, President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins are pushing for reforms that would allow farmers more flexibility and input in the labor process. With a more stable workforce, farms could see more predictable cash flow and better credit access. AgAmerica notes that this may be a strong time to invest in land, labor, and expansion.