Is ICE Targeting My Crew?

Legal Insights expert Trent Cotney discusses how to handle perceived targeting of crews on-the-job when it comes to immigration enforcement.

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

There is no shortage of news circulating nationally about the increased activity of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Department. One area of growing concern among roofing contractors and other construction professionals is the intentional targeting (or perceived targeting) of construction workers in certain communities, said W&C Legal Insights Expert Trent Cotney.

Groups of ICE agents are working with local authorities to stop vehicles at intersections, visit jobsites and saturate neighborhoods where canvassing is underway.

Professional Standards that Protect Your Contracting Company

Contractors and business owners are also dealing with increased demands when it comes to design specifications. “Systems are getting so complex,” Cotney explained. “If you didn’t install something correctly, then it’s on you. But it shouldn’t be your responsibility to meet certain performance requirements.”

“It is very difficult time period for construction, in general,” said Cotney, partner with Adams & Reese. “Make sure your employees know and understand their rights.”

Being prepared for interactions with authorities begins also with appearances. Crews should always want to look professional, but there’s nothing wrong with paying extra attention to details like clean, properly registered vehicles.

“It doesn’t necessarily eliminate the chance of being targeted, but … the goal to use professionalism in a way made to sway that intentional targeting,” he said.

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

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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.

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.