To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to include the processing of crawfish as agricultural labor or services, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Carter, Troy A. [D-LA-2]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 15, 2026
Bottom line
This bill expands the H-2A visa program to include crawfish processing, aiming to provide a stable workforce for the industry.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to explicitly include the processing of crawfish as "agricultural labor or services." This reclassification would allow crawfish processors to utilize the H-2A visa program, which provides for temporary agricultural workers, to address labor shortages. The definition of crawfish processing includes activities such as washing, sorting, grading, whole-boiling, peeling, and transporting.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill provides a critical solution for the crawfish industry, particularly in Louisiana, which faces severe labor shortages for seasonal processing work. They contend that including crawfish processing under H-2A will ensure a stable workforce, prevent economic losses for processors and farmers, and maintain the viability of a culturally and economically significant industry.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that expanding the H-2A program could depress wages for domestic workers in the crawfish processing sector or that it further complicates an already complex immigration system. Some may also raise concerns about the potential for exploitation of guest workers or the administrative burden on the Department of Labor.
The bill text is extremely short and straightforward, requiring minimal time to read and understand its direct impact.
Section 1
Inclusion of Crawfish Processing as Agricultural Labor or Services
This section amends Section 101(a)(15)(H) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(H)), which defines "agricultural labor or services" for the purpose of the H-2A visa program. It specifically adds "the processing of crawfish (including washing, sorting, grading, whole-boiling, peeling, and transporting)" to this definition. This change makes workers engaged in crawfish processing eligible for temporary H-2A agricultural visas, allowing employers in this sector to legally hire foreign workers to fill seasonal labor needs.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this provision is essential for the survival of the crawfish industry, which struggles to find sufficient domestic labor for the demanding, seasonal work of processing. They contend that H-2A workers fill a critical gap, allowing processors to operate efficiently and maintain the supply chain, thereby supporting crawfish farmers and related businesses.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that expanding H-2A to include crawfish processing could lead to a downward pressure on wages for domestic workers, making these jobs less attractive. They may also express concerns that the H-2A program, while intended for temporary agricultural work, can be susceptible to worker exploitation if not rigorously overseen.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the economic needs of the crawfish processing industry for a stable workforce against potential concerns regarding domestic labor market impacts and the welfare of guest workers. It seeks to provide a legal pathway for labor while navigating the complexities of immigration policy and ensuring fair labor practices.