SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Today, the House Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance & Policy Committee devoted a hearing toward examining the workforce and economic impacts of recent federal immigration activity in Minnesota. The federal "surge" has created rippling consequences across multiple sectors, including hospitality, retail, construction, and health care.
“Operation Metro Surge has shaken communities across the state. On top of widespread and well-documented violations of rights, it has wreaked havoc on Minnesota’s economy,” said committee co-chair Rep. Dave Pinto (DFL – Saint Paul). “Small businesses are facing pressure they haven’t experienced since the pandemic, with a suddenly shrinking workforce and customer base. Meanwhile, working families are left struggling to pay for rent and groceries – while many of them are fearful to leave their homes to go shopping at all. Despite claims of a drawdown, Minnesotans continue to witness ICE targeting their neighbors, including citizens and those with lawful status. Amid all of this, DFLers will work alongside Minnesotans this session to deliver resources to our communities that have felt the brunt of this operation.”
ICE’s surge in Minnesota has created widespread fear and trauma in Minnesota communities, leaving many residents worried about their safety, reluctant to leave their homes to go to work, school, or shopping, and many of them are concerned about how federal authorities might collect, use, and share their personal information. As a result, employers are struggling to fill critical jobs, and many businesses are struggling to stay open with fewer workers and fewer customers alike. A report from Northstar Policy Action concludes – based on conservative estimates – that Operation Metro Surge has led to an $80 million weekly reduction in economic activity in Minnesota.
Foreign-born workers bring valuable skills and experience that align with the state’s diverse labor market needs, and their participation is becoming increasingly crucial in industries facing persistent labor shortages. According to data from the Department of Employment and Economic Development, more than 370,000 foreign-born workers accounted for 11.7% of Minnesota’s labor force, and Minnesota has the nation’s highest foreign-born labor force participation rate at 74.9%.
Additional information, including a complete agenda and documents from the hearing, is available on the committee webpage. Video of the hearing is available on House Public Information Services’ YouTube channel.