A recent report points out that while immigrant workers play a vital role in U.S. agriculture, some sectors continue to struggle more than others. The seasonal workers made available through …
Ag Groups Challenge Additional $4 an Hour ‘Hero Pay’
A group of agricultural organizations is challenging the “hero pay” ordinance that was recently passed by the Coachella City Council. Western Growers, the California Fresh Fruit Association, and Growing Coachella …
New AEWR from Department of Labor Brings California Up To $16.05
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has finally revealed what the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) will be for 2021. Employers of H-2A workers will now know what wage expectations …
Farm Mechanization Key to Addressing Labor Issues Moving Forward
With labor a constant concern for California producers, farm mechanization research and investment present a viable mitigation approach. Mechanized farming equipment cannot address all the issues related to the continually …
H-2A Wage Freeze Blocked by Federal Judge Ruling
A federal judge has blocked the H-2A wage freeze that the Department of Labor (DOL) announced back in November. The DOL decision would have kept H-2A wages at 2020 rates …
H-2A Wages to Remain Stable Over the Next Two Years
The Department of Labor (DOL) has announced that H-2A wages will remain at 2020 rates for the next two years. DOL is revising the methodology for how the department determines …
Newsom Moves Forward with Workers’ Compensation Order
Governor Gavin Newsom has moved forward with making significant changes to the workers’ compensation system in California. On May 6 Governor Newsom signed an Executive Order to expand the scope …
Newsom Considers Passing Pandemic Cost onto Employers Through Workers’ Compensation
Governor Gavin Newsom is considering an executive order that could significantly increase the cost of workers’ compensation insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The order would substantially expand the criteria of …
Input Needed for Forthcoming H-2A Cost Estimator Tool
A partnership between AgSafe and UnitedAg is allowing for the development of an H-2A cost estimator tool that can assist with decision making when it comes to the H-2A program. …
New Overtime Requirements Need Attention
Several regulatory changes will be affecting the cost of labor this year, including new labor laws that pertain to minimum wage, workday and overtime requirements, as well as paid leave …
We won this battle, but the war still rages
Steve Scaroni of Fresh Harvest Lawsuits Seeking Mandatory Travel Pay for Ag Workers
A group of lawsuits that have been filed recently is looking to require mandatory travel pay for agricultural workers who use employer transportation. California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) is seeking …
