With the incoming administration’s promises to increase immigration enforcement, independent restaurants and bars must take proactive steps to protect their businesses, employees, and communities. Many of our establishments are supported by immigrant workers, whose contributions are vital to our industry’s success. Below, we outline steps you can take to safeguard your team and business.

Understand the Legal Landscape

Familiarize yourself with the rights of employers and employees under immigration law. Key resources include:

• National Immigration Law Center (NILC): Offers fact sheets on immigrant rights during workplace raids.  
• American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA): Provides access to legal support and information about employer compliance.  

Prepare Your Workplace

Create and share an emergency preparedness plan to ensure your business and team are ready for unexpected enforcement actions.  

• Train Managers and Staff: Provide training on what to do if ICE comes to your workplace, including handling warrants and protecting employee rights.  
• Designate a Point of Contact: Assign someone to liaise with legal counsel and assist affected employees.  
• Keep Accurate Records: Ensure all employee documentation (e.g., I-9 forms) is up-to-date and compliant with federal law.  

Pro Tip: Do not allow ICE agents to enter your workplace without a judicial warrant. Verify the warrant carefully before granting access.

Share Resources with Your Team

Make sure employees know their rights and have access to critical resources:

• “Know Your Rights” Cards: Distribute pocket-sized cards that explain what to do if approached by ICE. Available through Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC).
• Emergency Hotline Numbers: Provide contact information for local immigration attorneys and support organizations.  
• Family Preparedness Plans: Encourage employees to create plans for their families, including power of attorney documents for childcare and finances.  

Build a Support Network

Collaborate with organizations and community leaders to protect immigrant workers and their families.

• Partner with Local Advocacy Groups: Groups like the Immigrant Defense Project or United We Dream can provide training, resources, and legal aid.  
• Create a Legal Defense Fund: Pool resources with other business owners to provide support for employees facing deportation proceedings.