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Changing immigration policies: What small business owners need to know

As the Trump Administration continues to implement changes to immigration policy, many small business owners are facing challenges in navigating these updates and understanding how they may impact their businesses. At Small Business Majority, we are dedicated to resourcing local entrepreneurs with the tools needed to safeguard their businesses. To help small employers and immigrant entrepreneurs understand their rights amidst these changes, we’ve compiled a list of guides, legal aid and available resources that can offer support. 

It’s important to note that this list is for general information only and is not legal advice. 

Safeguarding your business & employees

  • Understanding your rights and responsibilities as an employer facing immigration actions can be difficult. The National Immigration Law Center’s Guide for Employers: What to Do if Immigration Comes to Your Workplace aims to provide practical advice for addressing immigration-related actions in the workplace. 
  • With the termination of the Department of Homeland Security’s “sensitive location” policy, which prohibited immigration enforcement activities in protected locations, some employers may want to have a plan in place in case authorities visit their business. These tips may help you bolster your law enforcement policies and form a lawful response plan.
  • If you are detained by immigration authorities, appointing a power of attorney such as a project manager, long-term employee or family member can protect your interests. Some websites offer a power of attorney template that can help you get started.  
  • For immigrant business owners, protecting financial access and assets is crucial for safeguarding your business. This Banking Access & Asset Protection Guide from the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce can help you take steps to maintain operational control and protect your funds. 
  • This small business continuity plan template and operational support guide may help you prepare your business and employees for unexpected immigration challenges. 

Understanding your rights when interacting with I.C.E.

For employees or entrepreneurs who may be affected by mass deportation efforts, understanding your rights when interacting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.) agents is crucial. Regardless of your immigration status, you have guaranteed rights under the law. Knowing these rights will help you better navigate interactions with law enforcement and protect yourself from potential violations or unlawful treatment. 

Legal aid 

If you or an employee need legal assistance, national and state-led organizations often offer free or low-cost legal aid and individual counseling. Browse our list below to find available resources near you. We will continue to add more state-based resources to this list. 

National Resources

California 

Colorado

District of Columbia

Georgia

Illinois

Minnesota

 
New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

Texas