Today, Congressman John Moolenaar announced additional Michigan agriculture organizations have endorsed his legislation, H.R. 7046, the Supporting Farm Operations Act. The Michigan Apple Association and the Michigan Vegetable Council have both endorsed the legislation, which would freeze the wage rate for migrant farm workers, known as the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) at the level that was established in 2023. This freeze would go through the end of 2025.

“I am proud to have the support of more Michigan agriculture groups for my legislation to help farmers. The Department of Labor has been raising costs on farmers for years and these unprecedented increases are making it difficult for them to keep working. Farmers and ag groups support my bill because it will help ensure they can pay a reliable work force and still afford to make ends meet,” said Moolenaar.

"The 2024 Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for Michigan will be $18.50 -- an increase of about 7 percent. Congressman Moolenaar's AEWR freeze bill is a positive step forward as the legislature addresses the onerous and expensive regulations around H2A and the need for meaningful reform. The Michigan Apple industry is grateful for Congressman Moolenaar's continued support and his work to preserve the United States agriculture industry," said Diane Smith, Executive Director of the Michigan Apple Association.

"Our country must grow food for itself.  The next few years will be telling as to how long and to what quantity we continue to grow fruits and vegetables.  An AEWR freeze is one step in the right direction to begin to offset current unsustainable labor costs," said Greg Bird, Executive Director of the Michigan Vegetable Council.

The Michigan Apple Association and The Michigan Vegetable Council now join Michigan Farm Bureau, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, the International Fresh Produce Association, and the U.S. Apple Association in endorsing Moolenaar’s legislation.