Immigrant workers make up a critical share of the workforce, and a stable workforce means a stable economy.

This hub brings together regional data, employer perspectives and practical resources to contextualize policy implications, helping business leaders understand and support a stable immigrant workforce that drives economic growth and industry competitiveness. Join us in strengthening California's vibrant economy!

California's Economy Is Powered by Immigrant Labor

California is the fourth largest economy in the world, and immigrants contribute significantly to our economy. Regional and statewide research consistently shows that immigrant workers and entrepreneurs are essential to workforce stability, industry growth and local economic vitality.

General Data on Immigrant and Undocumented Workers' Contributions to California and Los Angeles' Industries Data on Immigrant and Undocumented Workers' Contributions to California's Construction and Agriculture Industries Charts on Immigrant and Undocumented Workers' Contributions to California's Construction and Agriculture Industries

Sources: Bay Area Council Economic Institute and USC Equity Research Institute

Employers and business organizations generally recognize the positive role that immigrants play in addressing workforce needs and contributing to the economy (UNITE-LA, 2025). UNITE-LA seeks to keep business partners informed of policies, investments, economic data and actions business leaders are taking to not only raise awareness, but fuel information that will help develop rational suggestions that provide a path forward for immigrants to remain in the country.

 

Additional Reading:

Employer Resources

Employers play a key role in supporting a stable and inclusive workforce. The resources below provide practical guidance on workforce development, compliance and supporting immigrant employees.

 

CA GO-Biz

CA for U.S. (CA4US)

  • Resources - Research and data examining the role immigrant workers play in California's economy and the impacts of immigration enforcement.

California Chamber of Commerce

  • Immigration Law Resources - Practical compliance tools, FAQs and updates for California employers managing I-9 verification and immigration law changes.

CHIRLA Workplace Enforcement Trainings

  • Virtual Training Series for Employers and Workers (Webinar Registration - Zoom; resources) - A weekly, virtual trainings alternating between English and Spanish that includes: Constitutional protections at work and on the street; ICE raids vs. I-9 audits; role of federal labor laws, retaliation and discrimination; state laws; how to create workplace protocols; and Q&A with an immigration/workers' rights attorney.

Chrysalis

L.A. County Department of Economic Opportunity

Legal Aid at Work

  • Know Your Rights: Immigrant Workers (Video) - A short, accessible video outlining the rights of immigrant workers in California and employer responsibilities under state and federal law.

National Immigration Law Center (NILC)

Small Business Majority

Supplemental Employer Resources

 

 

DACA LAPSES AND WORKER'S RIGHTS ONE-PAGER

 

English

 

DACA LAPSES AND WORKER'S RIGHTS FULL GUIDE

 

English

DISCLAIMER: These resources are provided for informational purposes only. You should consult with legal counsel for any related matter of legal significance to your organization.

Policy Mobilization Hub

Immigration policies are changing fast and the decisions made across all levels of government will directly shape your workforce. This hub provides examples of key state and federal proposals affecting businesses, so you can stay informed, speak up and take action when it matters most.

 

Federal Policy Icon

FEDERAL POLICY

  • Dream Act of 2025 (S.3348)
  • American Dream and Promise Act of 2025 (H.R. 1589)
  • Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2025 (H.R. 3227)
  • Immigration Registry Update Bill - Renewing Immigration Provisions of the Immigration Act of 1929 (H.R.4696)
  • Dignity Act (DIGNIDAD Act of 2025) (H.R. 4393)
State Policy Icon

STATE POLICY

Local Policy Icon

LOCAL POLICY

  • Responding to Workforce and Economic Impact of Federal Immigration Enforcement in Los Angeles County (SD 1 - Solis)
  • Promoting Economic Resilience: Supporting the Small Business Resiliency Fund (SBRF) and Launching Cash Aid for Impacted Families (SD 1 - Solis)

 

Through our partners at Small Business Majority, join more than 100 California small business owners and add your name in support of an immigration system that works for entrepreneurs, employees and local economies. Sign the letter.

Get Involved

Interested in engaging and supporting these efforts? Stay updated on event and roundtable opportunities, signing on to advocacy letters and more. Join conversations with business leaders, workforce partners and policymakers on immigrant workforce issues.

Thank You to Our Partners

This work is made possible through collaboration with a strong network of national, state and regional partners committed to advancing workforce stability and economic opportunity. We are grateful to our partners for their research, on-the-ground insights, policy expertise and leadership in elevating business voices in support of immigrant workers and entrepreneurs.

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