Trump administration expands immigration enforcement programs
The Department of Homeland Security is moving forward with efforts to expand immigration enforcement nationwide, a push likely to intensify as Trump’s executive orders on border security and immigration take effect.
Administration officials have indicated enforcement efforts will initially prioritize individuals with existing deportation orders and criminal records but have also made clear anyone in the U.S. unlawfully is subject to removal. Although the extent of future enforcement will depend in part on congressional funding, expanded use of I-9 audits and workplace enforcement inspections is expected.
View more detailed information about how employers can prepare for potential workplace inspections. NRCA will continue to monitor the issue and provide updates as they become available.
Main Street Tax Certainty Act reintroduced in Congress with widespread support
On Jan. 23, Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.) reintroduced the Main Street Tax Certainty Act (S. 213/H.R. 703), legislation to make the Section 199A qualified business income deduction permanent. This legislation has been a key Roofing Day in D.C. priority as the deduction is set to expire in 2025.
Advocacy efforts are paying off—the House bill was introduced with 154 original co-sponsors, up from 91 last Congress, and the Senate bill garnered 37 original co-sponsors compared with 14 previously. NRCA joined more than 235 trade associations in sending a letter of support for the legislation, helping to secure backing from the entire Republican leadership team and every Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee.
Trump releases America First Trade Policy
During his campaign, President Donald Trump proposed tariffs of 10% on all imports and 60% to 100% on Chinese goods. These measures would generate an estimated $3.8 trillion to reduce the deficit or fund additional legislative priorities.
Although the administration did not implement tariffs immediately, Trump recently commented on the possibility of 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada starting Feb. 1, citing border security concerns, including immigration and fentanyl trafficking.
On Jan. 20, Trump released the America First Trade Policy, directing the Commerce and Treasury departments, along with the U.S. trade representative, to explore economic and national security challenges tied to large trade deficits. The agencies will recommend possible measures, including a global supplemental tariff, to address the issue. Most reports are due by April 1, making it a key deadline to watch.
DHS vacates extension of Temporary Protected Status for Venezuela
On Jan. 28, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem vacated the extension of Temporary Protected Status for qualifying individuals for Venezuela that had been published Jan. 17. The memo vacating the Jan. 17 extension states the outgoing Biden Administration "adopted a novel approach" and failed to demonstrate how the extension is "consistent with the TPS statute." The department indicates it will revert to the TPS redesignation and extension guidance issued in October 2023 pending further notice. NRCA is reviewing the matter and will provide more information as it becomes available.
Registration for Roofing Day in D.C. 2025 is open!
Join us for Roofing Day in D.C., the largest advocacy event dedicated solely to the roofing industry, April 8-9. Each year, roofing professionals meet with members of Congress on Capitol Hill to discuss the critical issues facing their companies and the roofing industry. Our priority issues this year will focus on solutions to workforce shortages and pro-growth tax reform. To view our draft itinerary, book your hotel room and register, please visit www.nrca.net/roofingday. Questions? Contact Deb Mazol at Dmazol@nrca.net.
Register now for ROOFPAC events at NRCA’s annual convention and the 2025 IRE
NRCA and National Women in Roofing will present “An Evening of Boots, Bids & Buckles” Feb. 18 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. during NRCA’s annual convention and the 2025 International Roofing Expo® to support ROOFPAC! This cocktail reception and live auction will be held at Smoke Skybar; register now to join your friends for this fun-filled event—in your Western wear!
NRCA’s silent auction begins Feb. 11 and will close Feb. 20 with complimentary drinks from 2-4 p.m. in NRCA’s booth, No. 9077, during IRE. Items include high-end electronics and trips, such as a Torrey Pines golf trip for four donated by Jonathan Reader of R&B Roofing. Bids will be placed electronically at https://roofpac25.givesmart.com; attendance at the convention and trade show is not required. NRCA is grateful for many generous sponsors who help underwrite the costs of these events so all proceeds can directly benefit ROOFPAC.
