Supreme Court Weighs Federal Authority In H-2A Worker Cases

The US Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday in a case examining whether federal agencies or courts should handle disputes involving migrant farm workers under the H-2A visa programme.

The Department of Labor previously fined New Jersey-based Sun Valley Orchards more than $550,000 over alleged failures to provide adequate housing, fair wages and safe transportation to 96 foreign workers hired in 2015.

Several justices questioned the scope of agency authority, while Justice Elena Kagan highlighted the case's immigration implications. A ruling expected by June or July 2027 could clarify the government's authority to impose civil penalties through in-house tribunals.

Related Tweet:

The Justice Department warned the Supreme Court on Tuesday that the entire system of federal administrative fines could topple if the justices rule that the Labor Department can't unilaterally assess fines on employers who abuse the farm worker guest program. https://t.co/1LMqkJskIB

— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 10, 2026

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tippinsightsTIPP Staff