Enforcement Changes at ICE - What it Means for Contractors

Legal Insights Expert Trent Cotney weighs in on what these changes mean for contractors that are already dealing with increased enforcement and scrutiny

By Trent Cotney, Art Aisner, Editor-in-Chief, Roofing Contractor, Jill Bloom, Executive Director, Walls & Ceilings

The Trump Administration recently announced a shake-up at some offices of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that will have an impact on efforts to enforce immigration laws and step up deportations. Legal Insights Expert Trent Cotney weighs in on what it means for contractors that are already dealing with increased enforcement and scrutiny in this environment.

ICE Shake-ups and Immigration Enforcement

Contractors and business owners already dealing with increased immigration enforcement and its impact on the roofing workforce may have more policies to navigate. A recent shake-up at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ordered by the White House could mean even stronger enforcement in some areas.

“Unfortunately, I’ve heard of a lot of this happening,” said Cotney, in response to hearing a story about a roofer wrongly detained by authorities for several hours. “It’s a difficult position to be in, and there’s a variety of things that you want to do if you happen to be rounded up and you are here legally.”

The first is to know your rights, and state your wish for legal counsel, said Cotney, partner with Adams & Reese, in this exclusive videochat. He also explained some legal remedies contractors can try if they’re detained in an enforcement sweep, as well as some legal pitfalls to avoid. Watch the full conversation here.

KEYWORDS: Adams & Reese If Walls Could Talk immigration legal issues in AEC podcast President Donald Trump video

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Trent Cotney is a Partner with Adams & Reese and a Florida Bar Board Certified Construction Lawyer, licensed to practice in multiple states across the U.S. and in Canada. With nearly 25 years of experience, Trent has dedicated his career to serving the construction and roofing industries. He is a zealous advocate for the international commercial roofing sector and serves as general counsel for over 10 prominent trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA), National Slate Association, Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). Trent’s commitment to the industry extends beyond legal counsel; he is an active participant in education, advocacy, and innovation, working tirelessly to address the challenges contractors face and advance the industry as a whole. Known for his deep understanding of construction law and unwavering dedication, Trent Cotney remains a trusted advisor and leader in the roofing community.

Art Aisner is Editor-in-Chief of Roofing Contractor and Roofing Supply Pro. He spent the bulk of his career as a multi-media journalist for newspapers and television stations before joining the RC team in 2015. He is the driving force behind the publication’s content development, editorial strategy and other initiatives that serve growing audiences in the roofing space.

Jill Bloom is the innovative Executive Director of Roofing Contractor, Walls & Ceilings, Building Enclosure, Roofing Supply Pro, and the highly regarded Best of Success event. With a deep commitment to advancing the roofing, construction, and building enclosure industries, Jill oversees a robust portfolio of publications, podcasts, and events that empower professionals with knowledge, inspiration, and connections.

Her brands deliver exceptional value across multiple platforms, including:

Techos y Más, the Spanish-language newsletter of Roofing Contractor.
Safety Advisor, a newsletter focused on critical resources for jobsite safety.
Thermal Talk, a newsletter focused on insights and news for the insulation contractor.
eRock, a leading newsletter for drywall contractors.
The Enclosure Experts podcast, offering architects deep insights into building enclosure technologies.
If Walls Could Talk, a podcast dedicated to exploring trends and innovations for the wall and ceiling contractor.
The Best of Success Podcast, providing thought leadership and practical advice for roofing professionals.

Jill’s passion for professional development and fostering industry connections is exemplified by the Best of Success event, a premier gathering of contractors, suppliers, and thought leaders for unmatched education and networking.