Holland Reporter

Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) has led a bipartisan group of over 100 members of Congress in sending a letter to House Appropriations leaders. The letter requests a freeze on the H-2A visa guestworker wage rate in upcoming appropriations legislation. This policy aims to reduce input costs for the agricultural sector and support family farms across the United States.

The Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR), which sets the minimum wage that farm employers must pay H-2A workers, has more than doubled since 2005. As of 2025, the national average AEWR stands at $18.12 per hour, marking an increase of over 3% from the previous year. In Michigan, this rate is slightly higher at $18.15 per hour, while neighboring countries like Canada and Mexico offer significantly lower wages for similar work.

"In Michigan and across our nation, family farms are struggling due in part to soaring H2A labor costs," stated Congressman Huizenga. He emphasized the need for Washington to assist American farmers by reducing expenses rather than imposing mandates that increase their financial burden.

Congressman John Moolenaar highlighted concerns from multi-generational Michigan farmers about their ability to continue farming under current policies. "An AEWR freeze...is a common-sense solution widely supported by the agriculture community," he said.

The Michigan Farm Bureau also supports this initiative, with Matt Smego noting that unsustainable wage rates create uncertainty for farm families and workers alike. Greg Bird from Michigan's Vegetable Council stressed that pausing the AEWR is crucial for maintaining domestic vegetable and fruit production.

Diane Smith of the Michigan Apple Association expressed gratitude for bipartisan support in addressing rising labor costs, which account for a significant portion of production expenses for apple growers.

Jamie Clover Adams from the Michigan Asparagus Association warned that increasing labor costs threaten multi-generational family farms and rural economies. Kelly Turner from Potato Growers of Michigan added that an H-2A wage freeze would provide cost predictability necessary for effective budgeting and resource management.

John Walt Boatright from the American Farm Bureau Federation praised Congressional efforts to offer relief until more permanent reforms are implemented. Ken Fisher of AmericanHort echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how freezing AEWR could alleviate pressure on growers within horticulture industries.

Rebeckah Adcock from International Fresh Produce Association highlighted Congressman Huizenga's leadership in tackling uncontrollable wage labor costs as essential relief needed today while broader program reforms are sought after.

Kasey Cronquist of The North American Blueberry Council described Congressman Huizenga’s effort as critical amid unsustainable annual wage increases driving farmers out of business nationwide.

Jim Bair representing U.S Apple Association urged Congress toward implementing this freeze alongside pursuing common-sense H-2A reforms ensuring continued supply worldwide with America’s favorite fruit being apples!

Paul Paplow President U.S Custom Harvesters Inc called upon immediate action providing much-needed relief amidst rising custom harvesting needs across America!

Russell Boening Texas Farm Bureau President acknowledged short-term benefits stemming from such freezes offering temporary reprieve before comprehensive long-term solutions come into play securing future viability among hardworking farm ranch communities nationwide!

Joining Congressman Huizenga on this initiative are Representatives Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Rick Crawford (R-AR), Patrick Ryan (D-NY), among others who collectively support agricultural interests through legislative measures aimed at sustaining economic stability within rural landscapes throughout America today!