The National Watermelon Association (NWA) today applauded two important developments that demonstrate continued momentum toward strengthening America’s agricultural workforce: the introduction of the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act and the nomination of Acting Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling to serve as U.S. Secretary of Labor. Reliable access to a legal, dependable workforce remains one of the greatest challenges facing watermelon growers and the broader specialty crop industry. For years, NWA has worked with Congress, federal agencies, and agricultural partners to advocate for practical improvements that preserve access to seasonal labor while reducing unnecessary costs, delays, and administrative burdens.
The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson, reflects years of collaboration between lawmakers and agricultural stakeholders. NWA has worked closely with Chairman Thompson’s office throughout the development of the legislation and believes the bill represents a significant step toward creating a more efficient, reliable, and workable H-2A program for specialty crop producers.
At the same time, NWA welcomes President Trump’s nomination of Acting Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling to serve as Secretary of Labor. During his tenure as Acting Secretary, Sonderling has demonstrated a clear understanding of the workforce challenges facing agriculture and has overseen several meaningful improvements to H-2A administration, including implementation of the interim wage rule and expanded flexibility allowing staggered worker entry. “America’s specialty crop growers need an agricultural labor system that is dependable, efficient, and responsive to the realities of seasonal production,” said George Szczepanski, Executive Director of the National Watermelon Association. “Chairman Thompson’s legislation represents meaningful progress toward long-term reform, while Acting Secretary Sonderling has already demonstrated a willingness to listen to agriculture and improve the administration of the H-2A program. Together, these developments give growers reason for optimism that meaningful progress is possible.”
NWA looks forward to continuing to work with Congress, the Department of Labor, the Administration, and our advocacy partners to advance practical, long-term solutions that strengthen America’s specialty crop industry. The Association remains committed to ensuring watermelon growers have access to the workforce they need while promoting policies that support the long-term competitiveness of U.S. agriculture. As the legislative process continues and the Administration takes shape, NWA will remain an active voice on behalf of the watermelon industry, advocating for thoughtful reforms that benefit growers, workers, and the communities they support.