AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Jul 28, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 15, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Removes the seasonal work requirement for H-2A agricultural visas, allowing year-round agricultural employment
- Expands eligible agricultural work to include reforestation, aquaculture, and livestock operations
- Establishes an H-2A visa pathway for current unauthorized agricultural workers who meet other requirements
- Requires Department of Labor to maintain a national, publicly accessible online job registry for H-2A employer labor certification requests
- Requires Department of Homeland Security to establish an online platform for H-2A visa application documentation
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The bill codifies existing wage calculation methods for H-2A workers but does not establish new wage rates
- Wage protection requirements remain in place: H-2A employers must pay rates set in regulations that do not adversely affect similarly employed U.S. workers
- The Department of Agriculture must issue rules defining what constitutes agricultural labor under the expanded program
- The official summary does not specify the scope, timing, or implementation details of the unauthorized worker pathway
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Introduced in House on June 30, 2026
- Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary on June 30, 2026
- No subsequent legislative action is recorded
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jun 30, 2026 — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
- Jun 30, 2026 — Introduced in House
- Jun 30, 2026 — Introduced in House