Toppenish farm reaches $1 million settlement with attorney general's office over H-2A

Cornerstone Ranches, an apple and hop farm in Toppenish, Washington, has reached a $1 million settlement with the state attorney general’s office following a lawsuit alleging discrimination against local farmworkers in favor of H-2A foreign guest workers. The lawsuit claimed Cornerstone reduced hours and laid off local workers while hiring H-2A workers, violating requirements to offer equal wages and benefits. While Cornerstone denies intentional discrimination, citing market factors and regulatory complexities, they will adhere to a three-year consent decree.

This decree requires Cornerstone to ban piece-rate productivity standards when using H-2A workers, actively recruit former employees, and implement comprehensive non-discrimination policies and training. The settlement will compensate over 50 farmworkers who allegedly suffered unfair treatment. Attorney General Nick Brown stated the settlement sets a standard for future enforcement, while the Northwest Justice Project emphasized the importance of protecting local farmworkers.

Cornerstone’s attorney, Brendan Monahan, maintains the company’s intention is compliance with the challenging H-2A program regulations and attributes workforce changes to economic factors like reduced hop acreage and low apple margins. The farm’s insurer support facilitated a quick settlement, ensuring its continued operation and employment of local families.

(Source：Yakima Herald-republic)