Trump Proposes Farmworker Permits Amid US Dairy Labor Crisis

The U.S. dairy industry is facing a significant labor shortage, prompting former President Trump to propose new farmworker permits. This initiative aims to mitigate the challenges posed by the cumbersome H‑2A visa process, which is criticized for its high costs and seasonal limitations, making it unsuitable for year-round dairy operations.

In Arizona, dairy and agricultural sectors are particularly impacted, with the existing visa system being described as inefficient by leaders like Craig Caballero, CEO of United Dairymen of Arizona. Trump's plan includes temporary work permits for undocumented immigrants already in the U.S. These permits will not provide a path to citizenship but will allow legal work and tax contributions.

John Boelts, President of the Arizona Farm Bureau, has endorsed the reform as a necessary and rapid solution to support agricultural families and prevent farm closures.

The reform underscores the need for a flexible visa model tailored to the ongoing demands of the dairy industry, where securing a reliable labor force is vital for resilience and growth.