Seasonal laborers serve a vital role in filling jobs where labor shortages exist, but should not be given preference over American workers. 

The H-2A program allows for seasonal workers from other countries to fill jobs that American workers cannot fill.  The program has a number of provisions that protect American workers from losing jobs to foreign non-immigrant workers.  The Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) sets the minimum wage for non-immigrant workers to protect American workers from unfair competition for jobs.  Each state has a different AEWR that is set by the Department of Labor.  The AEWR is higher than the minimum wage to encourage employers to hire American workers.

Non-immigrant agricultural laborers are an important part of our economy.  We must continue to balance the needs of the labor market without compromising job opportunities for American workers.