In one of the tightest U.S. labor markets in decades, farmers and builders are having difficulties filling positions requiring lower skill levels. One of the primary reasons for these difficulties is the deportation of many individuals who previously filled these jobs. As a result, wage rates for these positions have increased about six percent over the last year, which is the steepest increase for this type of low-skilled labor in 30 years.
Increasingly harsh immigration policies over the past year have stopped the previous flow of immigrants coming from Mexico to the U.S. seeking work. Traditionally, these workers are the ones that have filled many of these low-skilled jobs in the building and farming industries. Recent threats of the Trump administration to close the U.S.-Mexican border only have added to these pressures.
The biggest problem for builders is that while the home construction recovery from the housing slump in 2008 has outpaced the recovery of the construction industry by far. While housing need has increased rapidly, the number of construction workers in nonsupervisory positions has increased only by about 40% since 2011. These numbers translate into not enough workers to meet the needs of the construction industry. This has resulted in increased home prices, as builders struggle to fill positions, even at higher wages, and caused delays in the completion of homes. Currently, immigrants account for about one out of every four constructions workers.The problems that builders are having in finding workers are hurting landscaping businesses and farmers, as well. Immigrant workers can make more in the construction industry than they can landscaping or working in the fields. As a result, these industries are searching to fill open positions, as well. Whatever your situation may be, you will need skilled legal assistance to work toward a resolution of your immigration law matter. The Texas immigration attorneys of Peek Law Group know how to help you navigate through the maze of immigration forms, regulations, and policies, and get the relief that you need. Take the first step today and secure the future of your family in the U.S. Contact our office today at and set up an evaluation with one of our highly skilled Texas immigration lawyers.