Department of Homeland Security and the Dairy Industry

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has provided new guidance that impacts dairy operations within the United States. This guidance is crucial for dairy industry stakeholders as it pertains to the use of the H-2A program, which is typically utilized for agricultural labor.

Guidance on H-2A Program

DHS has confirmed that dairy operations can qualify for the H-2A program. This program is generally designed to allow agricultural employers to hire foreign workers for temporary or seasonal labor needs. The new guidance clarifies that dairy operations can also benefit from this program, provided they can demonstrate an actual temporary or seasonal labor requirement.

Significance of the Guidance

The inclusion of dairy operations in the H-2A program is a significant development for the industry. This allows dairy producers facing labor shortages to legally and efficiently source labor from outside the United States, thereby helping them maintain production levels and meet market demands.

Modified: 2026/06/18

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