ICE in Minnesota

Minnesota has become ground zero for ICE enforcement, and roofers are feeling it. Thousands of agents have been deployed. Videos of jobsite detentions are everywhere on social media. Fear is spreading fast.

On the latest episode of Morning Brew, Dmitry sat down with Minneapolis contractors to talk about what this means for the industry, and what practical solutions could look like.

Why Immigration is a Roofing Issue

This industry is built by immigrants. That’s not an opinion—it’s a fact.

  • Roughly 50% of roofers in the U.S. are foreign-born
  • An estimated 32% are undocumented
  • Across construction, 34% of workers are immigrants
  • In some trades, like drywall and plaster, it’s closer to 60%

The reality is, ICE enforcement is affecting more than just the crews without legal status.

One Minnesota contractor said ICE detained legal subcontractors on the way to a jobsite. They were released hours later, but the damage was done. Nobody forgets being locked up at work, and everyone is afraid to show up right now.

No Real Legal Path for Roofing Labor

Current U.S. work visa options do not fit construction or roofing labor.

  • H-2A / H-2B visas are capped and limited to seasonal work
  • H-1B visas are for highly educated STEM workers
  • People already in the U.S. without legal status generally cannot apply
  • Employment-based green cards often require leaving the country to reapply

Even major industry groups like the NRCA support reforms that haven’t passed—such as temporary visas for essential workers and permanent legal status for DACA and TPS recipients.

A Practical Solution?  

Dmitry & his guest discuss what a practical policy solution could look like – and ask whether construction business owners would be willing to sponsor work visas for their crews.