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Bill

HR 1891

Moving H–2A to United States Department of Agriculture Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Greg Steube

HR 1891 transfers the H–2A visa program to the USDA, streamlining access for farmers to foreign labor and addressing agricultural workforce shortages.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 1891

Summary of HR 1891: Moving H–2A to United States Department of Agriculture Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The Moving H–2A to United States Department of Agriculture Act of 2025 (HR 1891) aims to transfer the administration of the H–2A agricultural worker visa program from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This legislative change is intended to streamline the process for agricultural employers seeking to hire foreign workers, thereby addressing labor shortages in the agricultural sector.

Key Provisions

  • Transfer of Administration: The bill proposes that the USDA will take over the responsibilities of managing the H–2A visa program, which currently falls under the jurisdiction of DHS.
  • Streamlining Processes: The bill aims to simplify application procedures for agricultural employers, potentially reducing bureaucratic delays and improving the efficiency of the visa issuance process.
  • Support for Farmers: By moving the program to the USDA, the legislation seeks to ensure that agricultural needs are better understood and prioritized in the visa application process.

Impact

  • Agricultural Employers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be farmers and agricultural businesses that rely on seasonal labor. By facilitating easier access to foreign workers, the bill aims to help these employers meet labor demands, especially during peak harvest seasons.
  • Foreign Workers: The bill could also impact foreign workers seeking employment in the U.S. agricultural sector, as it may provide a more streamlined pathway to obtaining work visas.
  • USDA's Role: The USDA will need to adapt to its new responsibilities, which may involve developing new guidelines and processes for managing the H–2A program effectively.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced in the House on March 5, 2025.
  • Committee Referral: Following its introduction, HR 1891 was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.

Conclusion

HR 1891 represents a significant shift in the management of the H–2A visa program, with the potential to enhance the agricultural workforce's accessibility and efficiency. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for both agricultural employers and foreign workers will be closely monitored.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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