Source: ANDREW JACKSON LAW P.C., 12/23/19

DOL published new AEWRs in the Federal Register today.  Following is a link  of the Federal Register notice which includes a Table of 2020 AEWRs by state ( https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/12/19/2019-27410/labor-certification-process-for-the-temporary-employment-of-aliens-in-agriculture-in-the-united ).  

These new hourly rates become effective on January 2, 2020.  H-2A employers must pay the new AEWR to all H-2A workers and any U.S. worker engaged in corresponding employment for work performed on and after January 2.  The new AEWR applies regardless of the original wage rate stated in the job order and H-2A application.  There is contract language in every job order to cover the AEWR change.  Please update your payroll system to reflect the correct rate.


**HOUSING INSPECTIONS NEED TO BE COMPLETED EARLIER THAN IN PRIOR YEARS**
My office has successfully transitioned to USDOL's new electronic filing system which has resulted in faster processing of H-2A applications at DOL.  Just a few years ago the recruitment report was due 32 days before the requested start date.  Now the recruitment report is due about 60 days before the requested start date.  Therefore your housing should be certified 60 days before the requested start date on the job order so that housing results can be reported at the same time we submit your recruitment report.

Please be proactive by requesting your water/septic evaluations (if applicable) no less than 90 days before the requested start date of need.  Most importantly, housing inspections should be completed and positive results reported 60 days, but no less than 45 days, before your requested start date of need.  Start early - you might need extra time to deal with a bad water sample or to make repairs in order to pass the housing inspection.