Vermont committee reviews wages and conditions for migrant farm workers

The House Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry Committee convened on May 21, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding agricultural labor and wage disparities in Vermont. The meeting focused on the testimony received regarding wages for farm workers, particularly in relation to migrant and undocumented labor.

The committee began by reviewing a survey conducted by Migrant Justice, which indicated that wages for farm workers ranged from $8 to $15 per hour. This data contrasted with information from the Vermont Dairy Producers Alliance, which suggested that wages were significantly higher, reflecting the tight labor market in the agricultural sector. Committee members noted the challenges in reconciling these differing accounts of wage levels, emphasizing the complexity of the labor landscape.

Testimony highlighted the distinction between H-2A visa workers, who are legally permitted to work seasonally in agriculture, and undocumented workers, who often face precarious living conditions and fear of deportation. H-2A workers are subject to federal regulations that dictate their wages, which were reported to be around $17 to $18 per hour for seasonal jobs, such as those in orchards. However, it was noted that these workers are not typically employed in dairy farming, which requires year-round labor.

The discussion also touched on the implications of wage deductions, where employers could potentially pay below the minimum wage after housing costs are deducted. This raised concerns about the treatment of workers and the ethical implications of such practices.

Committee members expressed the need for a clearer understanding of the labor market dynamics, particularly how wages are set and the impact of competition among farms. They acknowledged that while some farms may pay higher wages, the overall market tends to stabilize around similar pay rates due to the interconnected nature of the agricultural community.

The meeting concluded with a call for further examination of the issues surrounding agricultural labor, including the need for better support for skilled workers and the potential for policy changes to address the challenges faced by both employers and employees in the sector. The committee plans to continue its discussions and gather more data to inform future legislative actions.