S. 4249, Agricultural Labor Cost Reduction. Quorum's AI analysis reads it as a net cost — and names who bears it.
S. 4249 · Net cost
What it does
This bill modifies the H–2A agricultural guest worker visa program to allow the Department of Labor to set two wage tiers based on worker skill level (entry-level vs. experienced) and to reduce the effective wage by counting employer-provided housing as compensation—capped at 30% of the wage rate.
The analysis names agricultural employers (farms, agribusiness) — and 2 more groups — among the beneficiaries.
The cost
Housing-credit offset (capped at 30% of wage) may reduce take-home cash pay below subsistence levels, particularly for entry-level workers in high-rent states.
The analysis put a high warning level on this bill. Transparency scores 65%; no detached riders.
Who is behind it
Filed by Ted Budd. Cosponsored by Cindy Hyde-Smith, Cynthia Lummis, John Boozman and Lindsey Graham.