H-2A Processing Is Set to Resume Amid Government Shutdown

By Growing Produce|November 4, 2025

The U.S. government shutdown has passed the one-month mark. At the time of this post, there is still no definitive end in sight. The shutdown has impacted many facets of daily operations in the U.S., including the H-2A guestworker program. This has put extra pressure on the nation’s farmers who rely on seasonal workers. In a move that might relieve some of that pressure, the U.S. Department of Labor has shared an updated “Plan for the Continuation of Limited Activities During a Lapse in Appropriations.” This would allow for some H-2A processing to resume.

In response to the decision, the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA) released the following statement:

“The Trump administration’s swift decision to resume processing H-2A labor certifications during the shutdown demonstrates its commitment to supporting growers and ensuring domestic food security. This decisive action is essential for safeguarding Florida’s vital agricultural production from potential crop loss and financial hardship, while also ensuring that growers have the workforce necessary to harvest fruits and vegetables that feed Americans through the winter months.

“We appreciate the administration, including Director Russell Vought and Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, for resuming this essential work, and U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart and other members of the Florida delegation for their leadership as Florida moves toward its peak production season.”

On Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, the FFVA submitted a letter to the U.S. Office of Management and Budget expressing its concern regarding DOL’s suspension of H-2A labor certification processing amid the ongoing government shutdown. The association called on DOL to continue processing H-2A labor certification applications without delay, emphasizing that timely action is critical to prevent the loss of perishable crops and avoid widespread economic disruption for Florida growers.