Although the recent downturn in the construction industry has eased the uncertainty over Florida's farm labor supply somewhat, growers remain concerned about having an adequate work force. FFVA leads the industry in providing agricultural labor services that can help employers find the workers they need.

Working through the National Council of Agricultural Employees, FFVA is on the forefront of advocating for immigration policies that bolster national security while allowing growers access to a stable, legal workforce. FFVA speaks out and provides guidance for its members on critical issues such as comprehensive immigration reform, changes in the H-2A guest-worker program, and the Department of Homeland Security's "no-match" rule.

For many years, Florida growers have relied on FFVA's Labor Relations Division to help them access the H-2A program. Through its subsidiary, Florida East Coast Travel Services Inc. (FLECTS), FFVA provides workforce solutions for numerous farm and non-farm employers in the United States. FLECTS uses the U.S. Department of Labor H-2A and H-2B guest-worker programs as well as the J-1 student, work and travel visa program. FLECTS also processes worker entry requirements and coordinates transportation of those workers to job locations.

The division also regularly assists employers with compliance with the wide-ranging labor laws that affect agriculture: MSPA, OSHA, FLSA, IRCA and others, as well with general assistance on farm labor issues such as training and housing.

For more information about FFVA's Labor Relations Division, call 321-214-5200 or send an e-mail. For information on the H-2A program, click here or call 321-214-5200. For details about FLECTS, call 305-823-1146 or e-mail flectsca@bellsouth.net.