Impact of Immigrant Workers in CT Highlighted

An analysis recently released by the Economic Policy Institute noted that 588,000 immigrants reside in Connecticut, comprising 16.2% of the total population in the state. That’s nearly 1 out of every 6 state residents.

The data also indicated that:

·         55% of immigrants in Connecticut are naturalized citizens.

·         253,000 U.S.-born state residents live with at least one immigrant parent, 8.3% of the total U.S.-born resident population in the state.

·         Immigrant workers fill 19% of all jobs in Connecticut and contribute 17.6% of the state’s economic output.

Data highlighted by EPI included the industries in Connecticut with the highest share of immigrant workers:

•         Construction - 26%

•         Other services - 25%

•         Professional and business services - 21%

•         Transportation and utilities- 21%

•         5Leisure and hospitality - 21%

And the occupations in Connecticut with the highest share of immigrant workers:

•         Maids and housekeeping cleaners - 61%

•        Physical scientists, all other - 48%

•         Chefs and head cooks - 38%

•         Other metal workers and plastic workers - 37%

•         Nursing assistants - 37%

EPI points out that “immigrants are not just workers but also entrepreneurs and business owners who are vital to the Connecticut economy and workforce,” noting that 45,000 immigrants in Connecticut are entrepreneurs, 24.1% of the state’s entrepreneurs.

Additionally, total immigrant household income in Connecticut is $30.3 billion, much of which is funneled directly back into the Connecticut economy through consumer spending, they note.

EPI, marking its 40th year, describes the organization as “a leader in the movement for economic justice, “ stating that “we use the tools of economics to win policy change that advances power for workers, economic security for families, and racial and gender equity in our nation.”