Construction is progressing more slowly, construction costs continue to rise and finding staff has become a challenge for many companies in the Rio Grande Valley. That was the message that builders, businessmen and local authorities took to the so-called “Concentration in the Valley”, where they asked Congress to promote work permits for immigrants with years of residence and proven work history.

The meeting, organized by the South Texas Builders Association and the American Business Immigration Coalition Action (ABIC Action), brought to the table the impact that, they claim, the raids by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service (ICE) are having on the regional economy.

Fewer workers, more delays and more expensive housing

Participants stated that the fear generated by immigration operations has reduced crews in housing and infrastructure works, causing delays and an increase in costs for companies and buyers.

Congressman Henry Cuellar argued that the application of immigration laws should focus on people with criminal records and not on workers who have contributed for years to the economic development of the state.

"When we don't have enough workers, you know what happens? Prices go up and so does housing. ICE should focus on criminals, not families," Cuellar stated.

For his part, representative Vicente González recalled that immigrants represent a fundamental part of the sector's workforce.

"In Texas, about 40% of construction workers are immigrants. They are the ones who are building our communities," he said.

They ask for an immigration solution with economic impact

During the event, Emiliano Valencia, deputy director of ABIC Action in Texas and DACA beneficiary, asked to move towards a mechanism that allows workers with roots to remain legally in the country.

Meanwhile, state representative Christina Morales highlighted the economic contribution of the immigrant population, noting that it generates around $19 billion in state and local taxes each year.

Organizers also cited data from the Associated General Contractors of America, according to which 92% of construction companies face difficulties filling vacancies. In a country that already registers a deficit of close to 1.5 million homes, they warned that the reduction in labor could aggravate the problem and make access to housing even more expensive.

In addition to the economic impact, attendees agreed that the immigration discussion will have an important weight in the next elections, considering that the Hispanic vote will be decisive in several legislative races. For organizers, strengthening border security while creating legal avenues for immigrants to work are not incompatible goals, but rather part of a necessary strategy to maintain economic growth in South Texas.

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