But immigration policy reform could be one solution, some experts say.
In 2022, foreign-born U.S. residents — including legally admitted immigrants, refugees, temporary residents and undocumented immigrants — represented about 18% of U.S. workers, up from 17.4% in 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
A pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants would offer eligible workers better education and employment opportunities while boosting federal tax revenue, Vimo said.
Reform could offer 'huge benefits' to tax baseDepending on the scope of changes, immigration policy reform could provide "huge benefits" to the U.S. tax base and economy, said Silva Mathema, director for immigration policy at the Center for American Progress.
In a 2021 report, the organization modeled the economic impact of four scenarios involving a pathway to legalization and citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
Persons:
Nicholas Kamm, Lea, Jackie Vimo, —, Vimo, Silva Mathema, Steven Camarota
Organizations:
AFP, Getty, Social Security, Centers for Disease Control, National Immigration Law Center, U.S . Bureau of Labor Statistics, Center for American, American Immigration, Immigrants, National Immigration Law, Center for Immigration Studies
Locations:
U.S