Governor Polis, Business Leaders Highlight Positive Role of Immigrants in Colorado’s Strong Workforce and Economy

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DENVER ~ Denver, CO - In a roundtable discussion today, Governor Jared Polis and FWD.us joined forces with business leaders from various industries in Colorado to address the positive impact of immigrants on the state's workforce and economy. The discussion was centered around a new report that highlights the contributions of immigrants to Colorado's economic growth.

Governor Polis emphasized the importance of hardworking and law-abiding immigrants in filling in-demand jobs, starting businesses, and driving economic growth and culture across all sectors. He called on Congress to take meaningful action to fix the broken immigration system so that the state's economy and workforce can fully benefit from the skills, culture, and hard work of immigrants.

The roundtable brought together leaders from different sectors such as healthcare, construction, hospitality, and agriculture. Representatives from organizations like the Colorado Hospital Association, Hispanic Contractors of Colorado, Colorado Business Roundtable, South Metro Denver Chamber, Boulder Chamber, restaurant owners, and the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union were also present. Workforce and community partners like the Office of New Americans were also part of the discussion.

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Todd Schulte, President of FWD.us highlighted how immigrants are essential for Colorado's continued economic success. He stated that protecting work authorization and expanding legal pathways is not only good for families and communities but also for businesses. Schulte emphasized that companies grow, industries stay competitive, and the economy wins when immigrants are given opportunities.

Dee Daniels Scriven, Director of the Office of New Americans shared that Colorado's ~480,000 immigrant workers generate $29 billion in income annually and pay $9.5 billion in taxes. She stressed that these workers make up 14% of the state's workforce and play a vital role in driving economic success across various industries. Scriven also highlighted how their integration is crucial for Colorado's prosperity.

Ale Spray, President and CEO of Hispanic Contractors of Colorado spoke about how comprehensive immigration reform is needed to support high-demand positions in industries like construction, healthcare, childcare, and transportation. He stated that these industries are essential for economic growth in Colorado and that limited availability of talent not only places a burden on companies but also increases the cost of projects.

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Jonathan Singer, Senior Director of Policy Programs at the Boulder Chamber of Commerce emphasized the critical role immigrants play in maintaining Colorado's competitive edge globally. He stated that access to talent is essential for innovation-driven economies like Boulder and that solutions must be found to support long-term economic vitality.

Peter Waters, Owner of T/ACO highlighted how immigrants are the foundation of the restaurant industry and an integral part of a healthy and thriving food-based economy. He stated that they support farms, kitchens, and restaurants and play a crucial role in providing quality goods and services to communities.

According to the new report, immigrants make up approximately 14% of Colorado's workforce with nearly 480,000 workers. They contribute an estimated $29 billion annually to the state's economy and play a critical role in key industries such as agriculture, construction, healthcare, and hospitality. This impact is also reflected in the state's economic development efforts with 9% of the Office of Economic Development and International Trade's loan and grant recipients identifying as immigrants.

The roundtable discussion highlighted the significant contributions of immigrants to Colorado's workforce and economy. It also emphasized the need for comprehensive immigration reform to support their integration into various industries and ensure continued economic success for the state.

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