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H-2A Visa Streamlining: Less Paperwork and Faster Hiring for Farmers.

This Act aims to significantly simplify the process for hiring temporary and year-round agricultural workers (H-2A visa), making it easier for farmers and agricultural businesses to secure necessary labor. It introduces joint application options for multiple employers and an electronic filing system, intended to reduce visa processing times. For citizens, this potentially means more stable agricultural supply chains and reduced risk of labor shortages in the farming sector.
Key points
Simplified Procedures: Employers can submit simplified petitions to rehire previous H-2A workers and file a single petition covering different employment periods throughout the year.
Joint Applications: Multiple employers can submit a single joint petition for H-2A visas, reducing administrative burden.
Electronic Filing: An online system must be established within one year, allowing H-2A petitions to be filed via the Department of Labor's website, with automated error detection.
Faster Replacement: If an H-2A worker prematurely leaves employment, the employer can quickly designate a replacement who will promptly receive a visa and admission after security screening.
Safe Harbor from Penalties: Employers using third-party preparers for H-2A applications are protected from penalties for errors if they reasonably believed the application was accurate.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_206
Sponsor: Rep. Kelly, Trent [R-MS-1]
Process start date: 2021-01-05
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Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Paperwork Reduction for Farmers and H–2A Modernization Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_206.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-01-05.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Simplified Procedures: Employers can submit simplified petitions to rehire previous H-2A workers and file a single petition covering different employment periods throughout the year.
  • Joint Applications: Multiple employers can submit a single joint petition for H-2A visas, reducing administrative burden.
  • Electronic Filing: An online system must be established within one year, allowing H-2A petitions to be filed via the Department of Labor's website, with automated error detection.
  • Faster Replacement: If an H-2A worker prematurely leaves employment, the employer can quickly designate a replacement who will promptly receive a visa and admission after security screening.
  • Safe Harbor from Penalties: Employers using third-party preparers for H-2A applications are protected from penalties for errors if they reasonably believed the application was accurate.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Kelly, Trent [R-MS-1].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-02.

CATEGORIES

Agriculture Migration Labor