National Coalition of Agricultural Employers CEO Michael Marsh is working to turn back a Department of Labor ruling that requires an employee to be paid the base wage for the highest paying task they perform for the duration of their contract. The purpose of this rule is to encourage hiring of local and domestic labor before using the H-2A program. Marsh said low unemployment numbers make it difficult for those looking for labor. “It’s hard to imagine you’re having an adverse effect on a domestic worker when they don’t even apply for the job.” While the petition will take time to work its way through the courts, Marsh says Congress could take action. “If there is no adverse effect, there is no need for an adverse effect wage rate.”
