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Texas green industry businesses are facing rising production costs, persistent workforce challenges, and an increasingly unpredictable operating environment. The Texas Nursery and Landscape Association is making sure state lawmakers understand what those pressures mean for our members and what Texas can do to help keep the industry competitive. On August 18, TNLA submitted written testimony on behalf of the Texas green industry to the Texas House Committee on Agriculture and Livestock as the committee examined the resiliency and future competitiveness of Texas agriculture. TNLA thanks Chairman Ryan Guillen for holding the hearing and providing Texas agricultural industries the opportunity to share the economic and regulatory challenges affecting their businesses. Putting the Green Industry’s Economic Impact on the Record In its written testimony, TNLA highlighted the green industry’s significant role in Texas agriculture and the broader state economy. According to a 2025 Texas A&M University economic impact study, the Texas green industry supports 224,490 jobs and generates $35 billion in total economic output. Nursery and greenhouse crops also rank as Texas’ third-largest plant-based agricultural commodity by cash receipts, behind only cotton and corn. But the cost of doing business continues to climb. Production costs for nursery and greenhouse growers increased 67% between 2007 and 2025, including increases of 95% for labor, 68% for containers and 67% for freight. At the same time, industry operating margins have tightened, leaving businesses with less room to absorb additional costs or uncertainty. What TNLA Asked Lawmakers to Consider In its written testimony, TNLA urged lawmakers to consider several practical solutions that could strengthen the long-term resiliency of growers, suppliers and landscape businesses:
Working for You The House Agriculture and Livestock Committee’s interim work will help inform legislative discussions heading into the next legislative session. TNLA will continue engaging lawmakers throughout that process to ensure the green industry’s perspective is represented. Our members grow the plants, supply the materials, build the landscapes and maintain the green spaces Texans interact with every day. TNLA will continue making sure policymakers understand both the industry’s significant contribution to the Texas economy and what our businesses need to remain resilient and competitive. Read TNLA’s full written testimony below.
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On June 30, House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn "GT" Thompson (R-PA) introduced a bipartisan bill that would deliver the first statutory reform to the H-2A visa program since it was created under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. That's 40 years without an update to a program that green industry employers across Texas increasingly depend on. Chairman Thompson didn't mince words when he introduced the bill: "Congress has not updated the H-2A visa program since Ronald Reagan was president of the United States, and if you ask anyone who used the program, they'll say that you can tell." He's right and TNLA members who have wrestled with H-2A's paperwork, unpredictable wage rules, and rigid seasonal limits know it firsthand. Why This Bill Matters to TNLA Members The bill directly addresses several of the pain points our growers face every season. And while the most direct impact falls on them, a more stable H-2A program affects the entire green industry supply chain, from the retail nurseries selling what's grown to the suppliers who serve every business in between.
Even TNLA members who don't directly hire H-2A workers feel the impact of labor instability upstream. When growers can't staff up reliably, it means fewer plants on retail shelves, delayed installs, and softer demand for everything suppliers provide. A more predictable, workable H-2A program strengthens the entire Texas green industry pipeline, not just the businesses using the visas directly. Simply put: this is the most significant attempt in a generation to modernize a labor program that has an outsized impact on our entire industry and that you continue to see are being pushed toward as workforce shortages continue to squeeze the Texas green industry. Take Action Today Legislation this significant only moves with a full chorus of industry voices behind it. TNLA needs you to tell your member of Congress that H-2A reform can't wait another 40 years, whether your business grows it, installs it, sells it, or supplies it. Visit TNLA's Action Center on VoterVoice to send a message to your representative urging them to support and cosponsor H.R. 9535, the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act: 👉 www.votervoice.net/TNLA/Home It takes less than five minutes — VoterVoice will identify your congressman based on your address and let you send a pre-drafted (and fully editable) message directly to their office. The more Texas green industry voices Congress hears, the stronger the case for getting this bill across the finish line. As always, TNLA will keep members updated as this legislation moves in Congress. If you have questions about how this bill could affect your operation, reach out to TNLA's advocacy team. Last week, TNLA traveled to Washington, D.C. alongside members of Texas’ green industry for the annual H-2B Fly-In. During the trip, TNLA members met directly with Congressional offices to discuss workforce challenges impacting green industry businesses across Texas. The conversations focused heavily on the seasonal H-2B VISA program. For many green industry businesses, these workers help keep projects on schedule during peak seasons while also supporting year-round American jobs within their companies. Why This Matters to Texas’ Green Industry Texas’ green industry continues to face significant workforce shortages, particularly during high-demand periods in the spring and summer. During our meetings in Washington, TNLA members had the opportunity to speak directly with Congressional staff about how these workforce challenges affect their businesses on a day-to-day basis. Members shared personal stories about trying to keep crews staffed during peak project seasons, balancing growing customer demand, and managing the uncertainty that comes with not knowing whether seasonal workers will arrive on time. Some discussed the pressure of meeting timelines for government and commercial contracts, while others explained how workforce shortages impact long-term business planning and growth. Several members also highlighted that dependable seasonal labor helps create opportunities for year-round American employees by allowing businesses to expand operations, invest in training, and move workers into higher-skilled positions over time.  One of the most impactful aspects of the trip was ensuring policymakers heard directly from employers experiencing these challenges firsthand. What Was Discussed in Washington A major focus of this year’s advocacy effort was support for the proposed “Certified Seasonal Employer” language currently being discussed in federal appropriations negotiations. The Certified Seasonal Employer proposal is designed to reward businesses that have consistently followed the rules and responsibly used the H-2B program over multiple years. Under the proposal, employers that have received H-2B labor certifications for the past five years would be allowed to maintain access to the highest number of seasonal workers they were previously certified for without those workers counting against the annual H-2B cap. One way to think about it is this: businesses that have proven year after year they are compliant, dependable, and operating legally would no longer have to “re-enter the lottery” every season just to maintain the same workforce levels they have historically relied upon. Currently, the H-2B program has an annual visa cap of 66,000 per fiscal year that has not been updated in decades despite major economic growth and increased workforce demand. The proposed language would reward long-time, compliant employers (certified for the last five years) instead of forcing them to compete under the same uncertainty each season. These workers would not be included in the cap. Where the Language StandsThe Certified Seasonal Employer language is currently being discussed as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Appropriations process in Congress. Rather than moving as a standalone immigration bill, the proposal is being pursued through the federal appropriations process because Congress frequently uses annual funding legislation to address operational H-2B issues and cap relief measures. In this case, industry groups are advocating for the language to be included in the baseline DHS Appropriations bill because DHS oversees key parts of the H-2B program, including visa allocation and administration. The proposal has already gained significant attention in Washington. According to industry briefings shared during the fly-in, the White House previously supported inclusion of the Certified Seasonal Employer language during earlier federal funding negotiations, and advocates are continuing to push for its inclusion in the final FY27 DHS funding package. This means the current focus is on educating Congressional offices, appropriations staff, and committee leadership about why workforce certainty is critical for seasonal employers and why long-time, compliant businesses should receive more predictability within the H-2B process. For TNLA members, the issue is not simply about increasing workforce numbers; it is about creating a more stable and predictable system that allows responsible employers to better plan projects, retain year-round employees, and continue supporting Texas’ growing economy. What Success Looks Like For TNLA members, success would mean:
TNLA appreciates the members who traveled to Washington to ensure the voice of Texas’ green industry was represented on Capitol Hill. Contact TNLA’s Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Team Earlier this week, the federal government reopened following a shutdown that, while brief, had immediate implications for employers relying on federal agencies to function without interruption. Even short shutdowns can have real-world consequences for the green industry—especially when it comes to seasonal labor programs like H-2A and H-2B. During a funding lapse, large portions of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) are furloughed, including staff within the Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC). This office is responsible for processing H-2A and H-2B job orders and issuing labor certifications. When these offices are not operating, applications are not reviewed, certifications are not issued, and processing timelines effectively freeze. For industries like ours timing is critical. Even a short disruption can compound existing delays, throwing off hiring schedules and creating uncertainty for employers who are trying to plan months in advance. TNLA continues to closely monitor these developments and communicate with agency officials to understand and mitigate impacts on our members wherever possible. Thanks to TNLA Members Who Reached OutDHS Releases 64,716 Supplemental H-2B Visas We do have some positive news to share!! Following sustained advocacy from industry stakeholders—including strong engagement from TNLA members—the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), working jointly with the Department of Labor, has announced the release of 64,716 supplemental H-2B visas for fiscal year 2026. These visas are in addition to the 66,000 H-2B visas authorized annually by Congress. Visa availability is tied to employment start dates and worker status:
Why This Matters to TNLA MembersLandscapers and other seasonal businesses continue to face serious workforce shortages that cannot be filled through the domestic labor market alone. The release of supplemental H-2B visas provides important, though temporary, relief for employers trying to meet demand during peak seasons. This action reflects ongoing pressure from employers across multiple industries and underscores the need for longer-term, structural reforms to the H-2B program that provide predictability, reduce uncertainty, and better align visa availability with real-world workforce needs. Thank you to the TNLA members who engaged on this issue and responded to calls to action. Your advocacy continues to play a critical role in shaping outcomes that directly affect Texas green industry businesses. As always, TNLA will keep you informed as additional details and guidance become available. Contact TNLA’s Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Team
On December 31, the U.S. Departments of Labor and Homeland Security announced plans to make 35,000 additional H-2B visas available for fiscal year 2026, on top of the 66,000 visas already authorized by Congress each year. The agencies have indicated these supplemental visas will be released through a temporary final rule, with details expected in the coming weeks.
This is welcome news for seasonal employers, but it’s important for TNLA members to understand both what this announcement does and does not address. The Administration confirmed it will use its congressionally granted authority for FY 2026 to release the 35,000 supplemental visas. That number is significantly lower than in recent years, representing roughly a 50 percent reduction compared to the supplemental visas made available in fiscal years 2023 through 2025. The Administration has also indicated that these visas will be targeted toward what it considers critical infrastructure sectors, including forestry, hospitality, tourism, transportation, manufacturing, and related industries. Many green industry businesses could fall within or support these sectors, but the exact eligibility requirements, filing timelines, and worker restrictions have not yet been released. Those details will come once the temporary final rule is published. Even with this announcement, the H-2B program remains heavily oversubscribed. The first-half cap for fiscal year 2026 was reached on September 12, and the second-half cap is expected to be reached quickly. Without a timely release of the supplemental visas and potentially further action by Congress, many seasonal employers will continue to face workforce shortages that directly affect their ability to operate. As TNLA has outlined in its advocacy efforts, the H-2B program is already costly and highly regulated. Employers must recruit U.S. workers, pay premium wages, secure approvals from multiple federal agencies, and comply with strict program requirements. The workers themselves are temporary and seasonal, and they return home at the end of the season. They are not immigrants. For many businesses, access to H-2B labor is what allows them to meet peak demand, keep year-round American employees working, and avoid turning down work or cutting services. For the green industry, lack of access to H-2B labor often means delayed projects, reduced services, higher costs, and lost contracts. Research shows that each additional H-2B worker supports multiple full-time U.S. jobs, including supervisors, drivers, logistics staff, and administrative employees. When labor shortages persist, businesses are forced to scale back operations, putting American jobs at risk and increasing costs for customers. TNLA continues to press both the Administration and Congress to move quickly. This includes urging the Administration to promptly issue the temporary final rule allocating supplemental visas for FY 2026, encouraging Congress to retain seasonal employer protections in the FY 2026 DHS appropriations process, and continuing to push for longer-term cap relief that provides predictability and stability for responsible employers. We are actively using these points on Capitol Hill and in ongoing conversations with federal agencies to advocate for the full scope of the green industry. As more details become available, TNLA will continue sharing updates and practical guidance so members are prepared to act. Link to press release HERE Contact TNLA’s Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Team Curtis Smith – Director – [email protected] Karan Mehta – Manager – [email protected] This week, from Monday through Wednesday, TNLA was in Washington, D.C. as part of AmericanHort’s Impact Washington Fly-In. Texas brought one of the largest state delegations in the country to advocate and educate our U.S. Senators and Representatives. Nine TNLA members participated alongside more than 120 advocates from across the nation. These fly-ins are always fast and frantic, as we zigzag across Capitol Hill to meet with as many legislators and staff as possible. But they are also one of the most important ways we make sure the voice of the Texas green industry is heard in our nation’s capital. Key Issues We RaisedWorkforce & Labor (H-2A & H-2B) Our industry depends on seasonal and year-round workers to grow, install, and maintain landscapes. The H-2A and H-2B visa programs are vital, but both need reform. We called on Congress to expand access, streamline applications, and modernize wage calculations so that businesses can meet labor needs while keeping costs predictable. Without these improvements, growers and landscape businesses face growing shortages that threaten their ability to operate. Tariffs, Trade & Supply Chain Tariffs on key horticulture inputs are driving up costs across the board. Many of these products cannot be produced anywhere in the U.S.—leaving green industy businesses no alternatives. We urged Congress to support a transparent and functional exclusion process so businesses can reliably access the inputs they need without being burdened by unfair costs. Farm Bill The Farm Bill expires on October 1, 2025. While it’s a cornerstone for agriculture, too often specialty crops and horticulture are left out. Current programs lock our industry out of crop insurance and other protections. We pushed for a bipartisan Farm Bill that reflects the realities of horticulture, ensuring access to risk management tools and expanding support for nursery, greenhouse, and landscape operations. Why It MattersFrom labor shortages to supply chain costs to ensuring our growers have a safety net, these policies directly affect the health and competitiveness of Texas’ horticulture industry. Trips like this Fly-In show how TNLA is actively fighting for our members’ businesses—from Washington, D.C. to back home in Texas. Questions?Contact Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, Curtis Smith by email [email protected] or call him at 512-579-3851 or Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Manager, Karan Mehta by email [email protected] or call him at 512-579-3874
Texas Congressional Update: Redistricting & Green Industry ChampionsThe proposed overhaul of Texas’ congressional map—pushed by President Donald Trump—is designed to give the GOP five additional seats in next year’s midterm elections. While the newly drafted lines would likely deliver some Republican pickups, an analysis of the redistricting plan suggests that a full five-seat gain is far from guaranteed.
These changes, based on 2020 census data, could help solidify Republican control in up to 30 of Texas’ 38 congressional districts—a significant shift with long-term implications for the green industry’s federal priorities. 🔄 Key Districts to Watch Two South Texas districts remain highly competitive—and one carries particular importance for TNLA: 👉 Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28, Laredo) 👉 Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34, McAllen) Both represent districts that leaned Republican in the last presidential election, yet they successfully held onto their seats. The new map makes each district slightly more conservative—a calculated gamble banking on continued GOP gains among Hispanic voters. For TNLA, Congressman Cuellar is a critical ally. He has been one of the most consistent and vocal champions of the H-2A and H-2B guest worker programs, which are essential to the nursery and landscape industry. His leadership has helped secure program stability, visa processing improvements, and continued momentum toward year-round labor solutions. 🗳️ As redistricting reshapes the political landscape, TNLA is watching closely—not just for shifts in party control, but for how these changes could impact federal advocacy for the green industry. 🔵 Other Competitive Districts Several Democratic-held urban and suburban districts could also become heavily Republican—under the proposed map. These include: • TX-9 – Rep. Al Green (Houston) • TX-32 – Rep. Julie Johnson (Dallas suburbs) • TX-35 – Rep. Greg Casar (San Antonio to Austin) If adopted, these changes could turn currently blue districts into strong-performing Republican seats, further reshaping the state’s congressional delegation. 🧠 Why This Matters to TNLA Members Programs like H-2A and H-2B are the backbone of a reliable workforce for TNLA members. Continued engagement with trusted allies like Rep. Cuellar ensures our industry’s needs are front and center in Washington. Your voice—and your vote—matter. They help protect essential workforce programs and ensure support for pro-industry champions in the 2026 election cycle. Stay tuned for more updates as TNLA continues to monitor congressional developments and advocate on your behalf. 
In this exclusive sit-down with TNLA President & CEO Amy Graham, newly elected Chairman Devin Guinn shares his vision for the year ahead. From fostering growth and supporting diversity to navigating leadership transitions, Devin reflects on how TNLA has shaped his journey—starting with a pivotal introduction to EXPO by past TNLA Chairman Tim Little. Watch the full interview to hear how TNLA’s connections became the backbone of his success and what’s next for our association.
Steady Workers Mean Steady Business—Here’s Where We StandIf your business depends on seasonal help through the H-2B visa program, there’s some promising news coming out of the U.S. House—but still roadblocks in the Senate.
In late June, lawmakers in the House advanced an important amendment to the FY26 Homeland Security Appropriations bill. This amendment would allow long-time users of the H-2B program—employers who’ve participated in any of the last five years—to bring in the same number of workers again, without counting against the annual federal cap. This would give law-abiding employers more predictability, reduce lottery risk, and help protect your business from labor disruptions. Unfortunately, the U.S. Senate didn’t include any H-2B reform in H.R. 1, the sweeping legislation recently signed into law. A proposal to create a “Certified Seasonal Employer” designation was removed late in the process after stalling over disagreements with the White House. What’s Next:
We’ve heard your feedback--webinars are in high demand. More and more TNLA members have asked for access to past sessions, and we’re happy to say: they’re now available on-demand.
Whether you missed a session or want to revisit one with your team, you can now log in at your convenience and gain valuable insights from top experts in the green industry. Simply visit: https://www.pathlms.com/tnla/courses/40432 Use your TNLA Member ID to log in. Need help? Contact: [email protected] ✅ Available Webinars: 💼 Financial Literacy – What You Need to Know! Speaker: Lyndi Sanders Learn how to build a strong business plan, manage essential financial documents, and work with lenders to grow your ag business. 👉 Watch Now 🌎 Know the Facts: H-2A and H-2B Guest Worker Programs Speaker: Arnulfo Hinojosa, Federation of Employers & Workers of America Understand compliance requirements, worker recruitment, and what’s happening with reform efforts in D.C. 👉 Watch Now 🔐 Steps Employers Can Take to Avoid I-9 Audits Speaker: Jacob Monty, Monty & Ramirez LLP Covers identity theft, SSA no-match letters, and compliance steps to avoid costly penalties. 👉 Watch Now 🌪️ Federal Crop Insurance – Hurricane & Tropical Storm Coverage Speaker: Jeff Vanlandingham, Tarpon Blue Insurance Advisors Get the facts on how indemnities are paid, policy timing, and how NOAA data affects payout eligibility. 👉 Watch Now We know how important it is to stay informed, especially when time is limited. These webinars are designed to deliver value--no matter your role in the green industry. 📅 More webinars are on the way—so stay tuned, and thank you for continuing to grow with TNLA. |
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October 2026
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