DOL issues final farmworker protection rule

The U.S. Department of Labor announced Friday its final rule designed to protect agricultural employees in the workplace.

The rule takes effect June 28.

The DOL said the measure “targets vulnerability and abuses” [experienced by farmworkers who are hired under the federal H-2A program, which allows employers to hire temporary foreign workers if the agency finds there is a lack of qualified U.S. laborers in the agricultural sector.

“This rule ensures farmworkers employed through the H-2A program are treated fairly, have a voice in their workplace and are able to perform their work safety,” DOL Acting Secretary Julie Su said in a statement.

The agency said the final rule adds new protections for workers who self-advocate, clarifies “for cause” termination, makes foreign labor recruitment more transparent, ensures timely wage changes and safeguards fair compensation for H-2A workers, improves transportation safety, prevents labor exploitation and human trafficking, and ensures employer accountability.