September 2025
A federal court in Louisiana has vacated the Department of Labor’s 2023 Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) methodology rule.
This decision is a major victory for Florida agriculture and Farm Bureau members. The 2023 AEWR rule created instability, and unsustainable wage increases by applying non-agricultural data to agricultural jobs. The court’s action provides much-needed relief and stability as our farmers prepare for the upcoming season.
This outcome directly reflects the policy priorities set by Florida Farm Bureau members. For years, Florida Farm Bureau members have called for fairness and stability in H-2A wage rates. Today, we can point to this result as successful policy implementation in action, which shows that the voice of our members makes a difference.
While this ruling provides important relief, challenges remain with the Farm Labor Survey-based AEWR system. Florida Farm Bureau will continue to advocate for meaningful reform that delivers long-term stability for Florida’s farm families.
Along with this news, the United States Department of announced on Friday, August 29, that they are discontinuing the Agricultural Farm Labor Survey (FLS) in its efforts to improve efficiency and eliminate unnecessary burdens. The FLS has been used to set the Adverse Effect Wage Rate paid to farmworkers in the H-2A program.
“The recent court decision vacating the AEWR methodology rule, coupled with USDA’s announcement that it will discontinue the Farm Labor Survey, are tremendous wins for Florida agriculture,” said Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith. “These actions bring greater stability and fairness to the wage-setting process and ensure that our farmers can remain competitive in providing safe, affordable food and fiber. Florida Farm Bureau has long advocated for commonsense labor policies, and these outcomes reflect the importance of listening to the needs of our farmers and ranchers. We are grateful for this progress and will continue working to secure a strong future for Florida’s farm families.”
This notice will be published in the Federal Register on September 3, 2025.