Roofing industry urges action on immigration reform

By Jessica Bravo.  

Coming together to collaborate for balanced solutions.  

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has joined the Essential Worker Immigration Coalition (EWIC) in a letter to key administration officials to advocate for the industry and request stability and growth-focused immigration reform.  

EWIC is a coalition of national businesses and trade associations advocating for comprehensive immigration reform. The coalition focuses on addressing the shortage of essential worker labor across industries and supports immigration policies that help U.S. companies fill critical workforce gaps. 

NRCA represents a broad spectrum of the roofing sector — contractors, manufacturers, consultants, engineers, building owners and public agencies. It provides leadership in education, technology, safety and government advocacy. 

Industry advocacy in action 

Now more than ever, the roofing industry relies on NRCA to be its voice in advocating for policies that protect businesses, support workers and sustain the industry’s future. 

The coalition’s letter references President Trump’s acknowledgment that many businesses rely on essential workers who may not be U.S. citizens but are “indispensable.” It states, “These workers are the backbone of industries that are fundamental to our economic security and way of life.” 

The letter also warns, “The shortage of legal channels for these essential workers threatens the stability of our supply chains, the viability of small businesses and the strength of the American economy.” 

The letter reminds us and the administration of the importance of these individuals to not only our industry but our local communities and the country.  How they girder our industry with their decades of expertise and institutional knowledge, our communities with their generosity and time, and our country with their dedication and faith.  It is vital that our neighbors, coworkers, and friends are able to continue building up our country and communities with the safety and security deserving of all.  

Key recommendations for immediate action 

The coalition urges the administration to: 

• Expand and modernize Visa programs 
• Promote efficient and fair processing 
• Provide certainty and stability 

New resources for employers 

NRCA has launched an immigration resources webpage for employers. Available tools include: 

• “Know Your Rights” cards in English and Spanish 
• Guidance on handling visits from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 
• An employer handbook 
• Information about managing labor cost risks 

NRCA will update these resources as needed to reflect changes in policy and enforcement.