Adverse Effect Wage Rate Methodology for the Temporary Employment of H-2A Nonimmigrants in Non-Range Occupations in the United States
DOL interim final rule changes methodology for calculating Adverse Effect Wage Rates (AEWR) for H-2A nonimmigrant workers in non-range occupations, potentially increasing labor costs for agricultural pesticide applicators who rely on H-2A workers.
Aforeworn detected this change in the Pesticide & Pest-Control Applicators space on July 6, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated High urgency. Agricultural pesticide applicators and pest-control firms employing H-2A workers for non-range agricultural jobs. should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: Effective 60 days after publication (approx. December 1, 2025); comments due by November 1, 2025.. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors Pesticide & Pest-Control Applicators continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
The Department of Labor issued an interim final rule amending the methodology for setting AEWRs for H-2A workers in non-range occupations, likely leading to higher minimum wage rates for these workers.
Who it affects
Agricultural pesticide applicators and pest-control firms employing H-2A workers for non-range agricultural jobs.
What you must do
Review new AEWR rates for your region and occupation, adjust budgets and wage offers for H-2A applications, and ensure compliance with updated wage requirements.
Deadline
Effective 60 days after publication (approx. December 1, 2025); comments due by November 1, 2025.
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