Today, the Immigration Research Initiative (IRI) released a national report that provides state-by-state data on the projected wages, economic growth, and state and local tax contributions from asylum seekers and newly arriving immigrants in the United States. The report highlights the significant economic benefits that immigrants bring to their communities.
According to the report, immigrants in the United States contribute millions of dollars in state and local taxes, and this contribution increases as their earnings grow over time. Within the first two years of their arrival, each 1,000 new immigrant workers are projected to earn $22 million in total aggregate wages. This not only benefits the region in which they work but also adds to the local spending power.
As immigrants continue to reside in the U.S., learn English, and gain work experience, their contribution per 1,000 workers is expected to increase to $32 million a year in total wages earned. This demonstrates the positive impact that immigrants have on the economy and their ability to contribute to the growth of local communities.
Furthermore, the report highlights that immigrants also play a crucial role in offsetting the costs to local governments through the payment of state and local taxes. Each 1,000 new immigrant workers will add an average of $2.5 million a year to the state and local governments of their settlement. This figure rises to $3.6 million after immigrants have been in the country for five years.
"The economic projections for asylum seekers and new immigrants are incredibly promising. It showcases the potential for economic growth and contributions that these individuals can bring to their communities," said a representative from the Immigration Research Initiative.
The report also provides state-level data, allowing policymakers to assess the economic impact of immigrants in their specific regions. Joint releases of detailed state-level reports were conducted in Texas with Every Texan and in Colorado with the Colorado Fiscal Institute.
"We are excited to release this report, as it provides valuable information on the economic benefits of immigrants at both the national and state levels. This data will help inform policies that support the integration and success of these individuals in our communities," stated a representative from Every Texan.
The release of this report comes at a time when discussions about immigration policy are at the forefront of national debates. It provides evidence-based insights into the positive contributions that immigrants make to the economy and local governments.
As the report demonstrates, the economic progress of individual immigrants over time is clear. Their wages increase, leading to higher tax contributions and overall economic growth. By recognizing and supporting the potential of asylum seekers and new immigrants, the United States can harness their talents and contributions for the benefit of the entire nation.
The full report, "Economic Projections for Asylum Seekers and New Immigrants: U.S. and 50 States," as well as state-level reports, can be accessed on the Immigration Research Initiative website.
