Rep. Moolenaar's Bill Seeks Freeze on AEWR to Aid Farmers

By Andi Anderson

The Supporting Farm Operations Act, introduced by Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI), aims to address the challenges faced by farmers dealing with escalating labor costs through the H-2A guest worker program. The bill proposes a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) set by the U.S. Department of Labor in 2023 until the end of 2025. Additionally, it instructs the Secretary of Labor to use a "primary duties" evaluation when determining wages for workers with multiple responsibilities. 

The legislation has gained support from several Michigan representatives, including Bill Huizenga, Jack Bergman, Lisa McClain, and Tim Walberg. Moolenaar and others have advocated for an H-2A visa guestworker wage freeze at 2023 levels through a bipartisan letter to House and Senate appropriations leaders. 

The Michigan Farm Bureau has been actively pushing for a pause in AEWR increases, asserting that the current system leads to yearly wage hikes that burden farmers. The AEWR in Michigan increased to $18.50 per hour on January 1, 2024, exacerbating the labor costs for specialty crop growers in the state. 

Farmers, such as Caleb Herrygers of Oceana County Farm Bureau, have highlighted the significant financial challenges arising from AEWR increases. Herrygers reported a $400,000 rise in yearly labor costs over the past eight years, with an additional $70,000 expected in 2024 alone due to the recent AEWR increase. 

The Michigan Farm Bureau is actively engaging its members and supporters, urging them to contact lawmakers and emphasize the need for addressing unsustainable H-2A wage rates. They encourage participation by texting MIFARMS to 52886 or visiting the link provided (https://bit.ly/protectMIfarms). 

MFB National Legislative Counsel John Kran emphasized the importance of a stable and predictable wage structure for Michigan farmers relying on seasonal guest workers. He commended Congressman Moolenaar and his colleagues for introducing legislation that provides a temporary pause while Congress works on a long-term solution, emphasizing the urgency for Congress to act swiftly and provide relief to farmers facing these challenges. 

Photo Credit: depositphotos-simazoran