Last month the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division announced it investigated Humberto Castaneda Produce and found several violations of the H-2A temporary agricultural worker program. The investigation showed that workers with H-2A visas were paid more than local workers. The company also failed to provide necessary tools, meals, or kitchen facilities. Workers were housed in old trailers that were not safe. Additionally, Humberto Castaneda Produce did not cover travel costs for workers, as required. Transportation for workers was also unsafe, with uncertified drivers who didn’t have proper licenses. The company paid workers less than what was promised in their contracts.
As a result, the Department of Labor recovered $31,102 in back wages for 23 workers. The company also faces $18,154 in civil penalties for breaking the law.