Short Answer:
Yes. ICE has officially resumed workplace immigration raids across all industries, including farms, hotels, and restaurants. A brief pause in enforcement targeting these sectors was abruptly reversed. Now, all worksites are subject to inspections, audits, and potential arrests—regardless of industry.
The On-Again, Off-Again Pause on ICE Enforcement: Confusion, Backlash, and Industry Fallout
In just one week, the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policy swung sharply—leaving thousands of employers and immigrant workers in limbo. Under the president’s direction, President Donald Trump issued a pause on ICE enforcement at these worksites, only to later reverse course, highlighting the administration’s shifting approach. President Trump’s decisions underscored the influence of the president in shaping immigration enforcement strategies.
Citing the concerns of farmers, hotels, and other hospitality businesses, Trump first paused ICE enforcement at these worksites last week. These policy changes have raised concerns among immigrant rights advocates and have become a flashpoint in national politics.
**“**Our great Farmers and people in the Hotel and Leisure business have been stating that our very aggressive policy on immigration is taking very good, long time workers away from them, with those jobs being almost impossible to replace.”
He added:
“We can’t take farmers and take all their people…and send them back…We can’t do that to our farmers. And leisure, too. Hotels.”
These comments reflect concerns that mass deportation efforts, including plans to deport millions, were far-reaching and affecting sectors that rely heavily on immigrant labor—including undocumented, DACA‐, and TPS‐eligible workers. The threat of mass deportations under President Trump’s administration had significant implications for the economy and workforce.
Trump highlighted that this stripping of the workforce was “not good” and promised to use “common sense” in temporarily pausing worksite enforcement to protect farmers and hospitality businesses. Immigrant rights advocates and Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about the impact of these policies, emphasizing the controversy and political debate surrounding immigration enforcement.
What Happened?
Initial Reversal (Pause Announced):
In response to escalating complaints from U.S. farmers, hoteliers, and restaurant groups, the Department of Homeland Security quietly announced a pause on ICE enforcement at select industries—specifically agriculture, hospitality, and food service.
The move was reportedly backed by White House advisors and Agriculture Department officials who warned that mass raids were causing labor shortages, threatening food supply chains, and undermining service industries critical to the economy. Additionally, the White House deputy chief and staff Stephen Miller were instrumental in shaping the administration’s enforcement approach, advocating for aggressive immigration policies and increased ICE activity.
Abrupt Reversal (Pause Canceled):
Just days later, the pause was rescinded behind closed doors. In an internal call with ICE field offices, DHS leadership ordered the agency to resume full worksite enforcement without exemptions. Stephen Miller, a senior advisor in the Trump administration, advocated for the immediate resumption of aggressive ICE operations, emphasizing the need for strict enforcement.
Officials were told that “no industry is immune” and that enforcement agents must treat all worksites as fair game, regardless of public statements made days earlier.
Clarification from DHS:
The Department of Homeland Security later clarified that there would be no “carve-outs” or safe zones for farms or hospitality employers. According to a homeland security spokeswoman, the department’s position is that no industry will receive special exemptions. All employers are now subject to inspection, raids, and I-9 audits.
Industry Reaction: Shock, Frustration, and Warning Bells
The whiplash policy change sparked sharp criticism from national industry leaders, particularly in sectors that depend heavily on immigrant labor. Members of industry associations and immigrant communities have expressed concern over the loss of safe spaces in the workplace, fearing that increased immigration enforcement and ICE raids create an environment of anxiety and insecurity.
In cities like Oxnard, local community organizations are mobilizing to support affected workers and their families, highlighting the emotional and economic toll these actions have on immigrant communities.
Agriculture Industry Response:
- The American Farm Bureau Federation expressed deep concern, stating that raids during peak harvest season have already caused workers to flee fields and disrupted supply chains. These disruptions are being felt across the country, from California to the Midwest.
- Fruit and vegetable growers, especially in California and the Midwest, reported crops rotting in fields because workers were afraid to report to job sites.
- Dairy associations in Wisconsin and Texas warned that 24/7 milking operations were at risk due to sudden labor shortages.
- A growing number of agricultural employers are urging the federal government to create a legal status program for long-term farmworkers and to expand access to H-2A seasonal farm visas.
Hospitality and Hotel Sector Response:
- The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) criticized the administration’s flip-flop, stating that labor instability is damaging already fragile recovery efforts in the post-pandemic hospitality market.
- Hotel owners in Florida, Las Vegas, and New York are reportedly experiencing major gaps in housekeeping, maintenance, and kitchen staff, threatening customer service quality and guest satisfaction.
- AHLA has requested temporary protected work status or at least deferred action for immigrant employees in good standing while Congress works on a long-term solution.
Restaurant and Food Service Industry Response:
- The National Restaurant Association warned that immigration raids could cause entire kitchens to shut down overnight, especially in metropolitan areas where restaurants rely on a predominantly immigrant labor force.
- Local restaurant coalitions in city centers like Chicago and San Francisco have called the on-again, off-again enforcement policy “chaotic and economically destabilizing.”
- Some restaurant owners report workers quitting preemptively or failing to show up for fear of detention, leaving shifts uncovered and customers turned away.
Common Message from Employers Across All Sectors:
- ICE raids are not just targeting undocumented individuals—they are crippling the businesses that employ them, many of whom have no viable alternative labor supply.
- Business owners are calling on the administration to adopt a “stability first” approach, warning that intense enforcement without legal pathways will lead to:
- Supply chain breakdowns
- Food insecurity
- Hospitality service collapse
- Long-term economic harm
The Bigger Picture: A Broken System
Despite political differences, industry associations across agriculture, hospitality, and restaurants agree on one core point:
“The U.S. desperately needs a legal, stable immigrant workforce. Raiding businesses instead of fixing immigration law is a recipe for economic disaster.”
A legal, stable workforce depends on workers who have entered the country legally and are recognized as lawful immigrants, in contrast to those at risk of enforcement actions. The current enforcement climate also affects asylum seekers, who may face increased arrests and uncertainty.
Until federal reforms are enacted, industries that rely on immigrants will continue to operate in fear—caught between enforcement surges and unpredictable policy reversals.
Who Is Targeted in ICE Worksite Raids?
ICE is focusing on industries with large immigrant labor forces, including:
- Farms and agriculture
- Hotels and hospitality
- Restaurants and food service
- Food processing plants
- Construction and manufacturing
Which Workers Are at Risk?
- Undocumented immigrants
- Workers with expired visas or no work authorization
- Those with removal orders or prior deportations
Even legal residents should carry proof of status to avoid wrongful detention.
Industries Facing the Most ICE Raids in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of recent enforcement activity by industry, highlighting the number of raids and how each sector has been impacted nationwide. Recent months have seen a marked increase in ICE activity, with a significant rise in ICE arrests during large-scale operations targeting workplaces across the country:
| Industry | Estimated Number of Raids | Impact and Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Farms & Agriculture | 120+ | Field raids by federal agents have led to labor shortages during critical harvests, leaving crops unpicked. Increased ICE activity in these areas has resulted in more detentions and heightened fear in immigrant communities. |
| Restaurants & Food Service | 90+ | Kitchen obligations disrupted by mass inspections and detentions affecting staff retention. ICE arrests during these raids have contributed to ongoing staffing challenges. |
| Hotels & Hospitality | 60+ | Housekeeping and maintenance shortages are causing operational delays, as ICE activity and enforcement actions target undocumented workers in these settings. |
| Food Processing / Meatpacking | 45+ | Federal agents have conducted raids and investigations at these facilities, focusing on crime related to illegal employment. Sudden workforce gaps threaten production lines and supply distribution, with ICE arrests highlighting the ongoing concern about workplace crime and immigration violations. |
| Construction & Manufacturing | 30+ | Worksites with undocumented crews have faced fugitive sweeps and I-9 audits, as ICE activity and federal agents continue to target these industries for enforcement actions. |
Key Takeaways
- Agriculture: The spike in farm worksite raids has disrupted seasonal labor cycles, delaying harvests and causing growers to scramble for replacement workers.
- Hospitality & Food Service: Many hotels and restaurants report last-minute staff shortages as workers stay home out of fear, damaging service capacity and guest experience.
- Food Processing: Meatpacking and packaging plants have seen partial shutdowns and operational bottlenecks after significant crew disruptions during raids.
- Construction & Manufacturing: These sectors are increasingly affected by compliance-focused audits and fugitive apprehension efforts, leading to project delays and legal scrutiny.
Why These Industries Are Targeted
- High Reliance on Immigrant Labor: These sectors depend heavily on immigrant workers, especially in lower-wage or seasonal roles.
- Frequent Past Raids and Tips: Some of these industries have a history of past ICE actions or whistleblower reports, making them recurring targets. Customs enforcement and immigration and customs enforcement actions are often justified as necessary measures to protect public safety, maintain national security, and address criminal activity related to illegal immigration.
- Ripple Effect on the Economy: Disruption in these core industries can lead to cascading impacts—such as rising food prices, supply chain delays, and loss of tourism revenue.
What Businesses in These Industries Should Do
- Update Hiring Practices
- Conduct internal audits of I-9 forms and document retention.
- Consider enrolling in E-Verify for added compliance verification.
- Use the I-9 Handbook for Employers (M-274)
- Implement ICE Response Training
- Provide “Know Your Rights” sessions to staff.
- Designate a trained point person to handle any ICE visit.
- Create Emergency Operational Plans
- Prepare staffing contingencies for sudden employee absences.
- Train supervisors on how to legally restrict ICE from private areas without a warrant.
- Seek Legal Counsel Immediately
- Contact an immigration attorney to review your compliance and readiness.
- Have an attorney on call in case a raid or audit occurs.
By proactively addressing hiring compliance and preparing for unexpected enforcement actions, businesses in high-risk industries can better weather the return of workplace raids—protecting both their operations and their workforce.
What Should Immigrant Workers Do Now?
- Carry valid ID or proof of legal status, if you have it
- Memorize the phone number of a lawyer or loved one
- Don’t panic or flee if ICE arrives
- Consider preparing a family emergency plan
- Seek legal help to explore if you qualify for protection (DACA, TPS, asylum, VAWA, U visa, etc.)
What Are Your Rights During an ICE Raid?
Workers’ Rights
- You have the right to remain silent
- Do not sign anything without a lawyer
- You can ask for a lawyer
- ICE must show a judicial warrant to enter private areas
- Don’t run or resist – stay calm
Employers’ Rights and Duties
- Request to see a valid warrant
- Do not grant access to non-public areas without a warrant
- You have 3 days to respond to an I-9 Notice of Inspection
- Avoid giving unauthorized information or signing anything on the spot
Frequently Asked Questions About Reversal of Protection for Farms, Hotels, Restaurants, from ICE Raids
Why did the Trump administration initially pause ICE enforcement at farms, hotels, and restaurants?
The administration briefly paused enforcement in response to pressure from agricultural, hospitality, and restaurant industries. These sectors warned that aggressive immigration raids were worsening already severe labor shortages, disrupting production and service operations, and threatening economic stability in essential industries.
Why was the pause reversed so quickly?
The pause was reversed after internal backlash from immigration hardliners within DHS and ICE. Officials argued that exempting certain industries would create “safe zones” for unauthorized employment and undermine enforcement priorities. As a result, ICE was instructed to resume worksite operations without industry exceptions.
Does the reversal mean all industries are now at risk for ICE raids?
Yes. The current position of DHS and ICE is that no industry is exempt. Farms, hotels, restaurants, food processing plants, construction, and any other business suspected of employing undocumented workers may be subject to inspections, I-9 audits, or unannounced raids.
What is the impact of resumed raids on businesses in these sectors?
Businesses are reporting increased absenteeism, fear among workers, and interruptions to daily operations. Many have lost critical staff overnight or seen employees quit due to fear of arrest. Employers are also concerned about financial penalties, public scrutiny, and inability to meet production or service demands.
How are farmers specifically affected by the renewed ICE raids?
Farmers, especially in produce and dairy sectors, have experienced significant disruptions. Some report that crops are going unharvested because laborers are too afraid to show up. Others worry about losing seasonal labor during peak harvest periods. The agriculture industry depends heavily on immigrant workers—many of whom are undocumented or in mixed-status families.
Are restaurant and hotel owners facing similar problems?
Yes. Restaurants and hotels are facing labor shortages in roles such as dishwashing, housekeeping, food prep, and maintenance. Owners report that even the fear of enforcement is leading workers to avoid shifts or resign. Many businesses say the unpredictability of ICE actions is affecting their ability to stay open or serve customers reliably.
Is this enforcement reversal affecting the broader economy?
Yes. The return to high-volume worksite raids is already straining several key sectors. Agriculture, food service, and hospitality are significant contributors to local and national economies. Disruptions in these industries can cause downstream effects such as supply chain delays, food spoilage, rising consumer prices, and reduced tourism and service revenue.
What legal risks do employers now face if ICE audits or raids their worksites?
Employers face potential civil fines for I-9 violations, and in serious cases, criminal charges for knowingly hiring or harboring undocumented workers. ICE may also seize business records and detain workers, leading to lawsuits, negative publicity, or operational shutdowns.
Can employers protect themselves from penalties during enforcement?
Yes. Employers should ensure I-9 forms are properly completed and stored, avoid knowingly hiring unauthorized workers, and train management on how to respond lawfully to ICE visits. Using E-Verify and conducting regular internal audits can also demonstrate good faith compliance.
Do businesses have any recourse if ICE agents overstep legal boundaries during a raid?
Yes. If ICE enters private areas without a judicial warrant, conducts unlawful searches, or violates workers’ rights, businesses and individuals can file motions to suppress evidence or file complaints. An experienced immigration attorney can challenge the legality of the raid and represent affected parties in court.
What rights do workers have if ICE comes to their workplace?
All workers—regardless of immigration status—have the right to remain silent, the right to refuse consent to search personal belongings, and the right to request an attorney. They should not sign anything without legal advice and should avoid providing false information.
Will legal workers or U.S. citizens be affected by these raids?
Yes. There are reports of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents being detained temporarily during past raids if they failed to provide immediate proof of status. All workers should carry some form of valid ID or work authorization documentation when possible.
Are employers being advised to report undocumented workers to ICE?
No. Employers are not required to—and in many cases, should not—proactively report suspected undocumented workers. Instead, they should ensure compliance with hiring laws and respond appropriately to any official ICE notice or inquiry, ideally with legal guidance.
Is there a process for undocumented workers to legalize their status and avoid arrest?
Possibly. Some workers may be eligible for relief such as family-based green cards, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), asylum, or waivers. Each case depends on specific circumstances. A qualified immigration attorney can review options.
What are industry groups doing in response to the ICE enforcement reversal?
Many industry groups—including agriculture, hospitality, and restaurant associations—have issued statements criticizing the policy flip-flop. They are lobbying for legislative solutions such as expanded guest worker programs, legalization pathways for long-term employees, and consistent enforcement policies that don’t destabilize businesses.
Will this enforcement policy continue indefinitely?
It’s unclear. The situation remains fluid and politically charged. While current DHS leadership supports aggressive enforcement, backlash from industry, local governments, and civil rights organizations may influence future adjustments. No formal legislation has been enacted to limit or permanently change enforcement practices.
Should businesses prepare for ICE even if they haven’t been targeted before?
Yes. ICE enforcement is no longer limited to high-profile violators or large companies. Even small businesses in rural areas have been subject to audits and raids. Employers should proactively consult with immigration counsel to assess risks and ensure full compliance with immigration and labor laws.
How can workers and employers get legal help if they are affected by an ICE raid?
They can contact an experienced immigration attorney like Richard Herman for individualized legal assistance, rapid response during ICE actions, and long-term strategy to avoid deportation, defend against fines, and secure legal status where possible.
Is ICE allowed to raid any workplace?
Yes. The current enforcement policy permits raids on any business suspected of employing undocumented workers.
Do I have to let ICE into my business?
Only if they have a judicial warrant. You can legally refuse access to private areas without one.
Can ICE question me at work?
Yes, but you are not required to answer. Politely state, “I choose to remain silent.”
What happens to my employer if they hired undocumented workers?
They may face audits, fines, or in rare cases, criminal charges. Intent and past behavior matter.
Can I be deported if caught during a raid?
Possibly, but you may qualify for defenses such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or family petitions.
How can I protect my employees and business?
Implement a workplace ICE plan, conduct I-9 audits, train staff on protocols, and retain legal counsel.
How do I know if ICE has targeted my industry?
Agriculture, hospitality, and food service are high-risk sectors. But ICE may target any employer based on tips or internal investigations.
Take Control Before a Raid Happens
The return of full-scale ICE raids at farms, hotels, and restaurants is already impacting communities and employers nationwide. Many are left scrambling for legal protection—don’t wait until it’s too late.
Richard Herman and the Herman Legal Group are here to help you:
- Stay protected
- Defend your rights
- Comply with immigration laws
- Prepare for any ICE enforcement action
Book a consultation today to get experienced legal support you can trust:
👉 Schedule a Consultation
General Worksite Enforcement & Employer Compliance
- ICE – Worksite Enforcement Overview
Overview of ICE’s enforcement priorities and legal obligations for employers. - USCIS – I-9 Central
Official guide to completing and maintaining Form I-9, used to verify worker eligibility. - USCIS – Handbook for Employers (M-274)
Step-by-step instructions for complying with hiring and verification laws. - E-Verify Enrollment & Information
Free DHS service to confirm employment eligibility of new hires.
Agricultural Employers
- U.S. Department of Labor – H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers
Learn about legally hiring foreign agricultural workers through the H-2A visa program. - Farmworker Justice – Employer Obligations & Rights
Resources for farm owners on lawful employment practices and labor rights compliance. - Immigration & Farm Labor: Legal Guide (PDF)
A practical guide for agricultural businesses dealing with immigration-related legal risks.
Hospitality & Food Service Employers
- National Restaurant Association – Workforce & Immigration Policy
Legislative updates and compliance resources for restaurant and food service employers. - American Hotel & Lodging Association – Immigration Resources
Best practices and policy briefs for hotels facing immigration-related challenges.
Know-Your-Rights Materials (For Employers and Workers)
- ILRC – Know Your Rights During ICE Raids (Multilingual)
Printable cards and flyers to educate workers on their rights during an ICE raid. - National Immigration Law Center – ICE Raid Employer Toolkit
Employer checklists and legal strategies for responding to enforcement actions. - ACLU – What To Do If Immigration Agents Come to Your Business
Legal tips for business owners when approached by immigration enforcement.
Legal and Emergency Support
- American Immigration Lawyers Association – Find an Immigration Lawyer
Nationwide directory of immigration attorneys for urgent or long-term legal help. - National Immigration Project – Rapid Response and Deportation Defense
Toolkits, hotline resources, and templates to build a workplace legal response plan. - Immigrant Legal Resource Center – ICE Raid Preparedness for Employers
Employer training materials, sample policies, and response planning guidance.
If you’re unsure where to begin or need urgent legal support, you can also book a consultation with the Herman Legal Group for strategic legal guidance on protecting your business and your team.
