H-2A guest farmworker certifications increased 17% during the first half of fiscal year 2026 compared to the same period last year, signaling continued reliance on temporary agricultural labor as farmers face ongoing workforce shortages. This year-over-year growth reflects increasing labor demand across agriculture, as domestic labor availability remains limited and farms continue to seek seasonal workers through the federal visa program. H-2A use has expanded significantly over the last decade, becoming a larger share of the agricultural workforce in many regions.

House Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson is leading growing policy discussions on redefining seasonal definitions that guide the H-2A program, particularly for sectors like livestock, especially dairy, that often need year-round labor support. At the same time, concerns remain about labor oversight, worker protections and program administration as demand continues to grow. For farmers, the increase underscores both the continued challenge of securing reliable labor and the growing role H-2A workers play in maintaining agricultural operations.

Read the full article to learn more about agricultural labor trends in 2026.
The article also highlights growing policy discussions around expanding access to the H-2A program, particularly for sectors like livestock, especially dairy, that often need year-round labor support. At the same time, concerns remain about labor oversight, worker protections and program administration as demand continues to grow. For farmers, the increase underscores both the continued challenge of securing reliable labor and the growing role H-2A workers play in maintaining agricultural operations.

Read the full Farm Policy News Summary to learn more about agricultural labor trends in 2026.