Immigration enforcement is straining the region’s labor force, especially in agriculture and construction, according to RochesterFirst. Since January, over 770,000 immigrants have reportedly left the U.S., largely due to new ICE crackdowns under a recently passed Senate bill.
Local employers are struggling to find replacements for longtime foreign-born workers, many of whom have lived in the area for years. Crews in roofing and siding industries have been hit especially hard, leaving jobs unfinished and companies short-staffed.
Advocates warn that without these workers, key industries may collapse. An upcoming conference aims to help service organizations better understand and support migrant laborers.
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