Idaho Businesses Warn of Economic Losses From Removing Immigrant Workers

Agriculture groups and companies release study on impact of foreign-born workforce in Idaho

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Multiple agriculture interest groups in Idaho, including the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation and the Idaho Dairymen's Association, have released a study examining the economic effects of foreign-born workers on the state's economy. The study, conducted by regional economists, estimates that removing the entire 28,725 foreign-born worker population in Idaho would result in a 4.6% drop in gross state product, a $5.1 billion capital loss, and the loss of around 55,818 jobs statewide.

Why it matters

The study comes as Idaho lawmakers consider implementing additional E-Verify requirements for employers, which would increase scrutiny on the immigration status of workers. The agriculture and business groups argue that such policies could have severe economic consequences for Idaho, potentially mirroring losses seen during the Great Recession.

The details

The study, titled 'The Story of Idaho Labor Markets: An Economic Analysis of Foreign-Born Contributions,' was prepared by regional economists Steven Peterson and Timothy Nadreau. It was endorsed by several industry groups, including the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation, the Idaho Dairymen's Association, the Idaho Alliance for a Legal Workforce, the Idaho Home Builders Association, and the commercial real estate firm Ahlquist.

  • The study was released on Friday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Idaho Farm Bureau Federation

An agriculture interest group in Idaho.

Idaho Dairymen's Association

An agriculture interest group representing the dairy industry in Idaho.

Steven Peterson

A regional economist who co-authored the study.

Timothy Nadreau

A regional economist who co-authored the study.

Zak Miller

CEO of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation.

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What they’re saying

“As immigration policy continues to be debated, it's critical that decisions are informed by economic data. This study helps illustrate what is at stake for farmers, workers, and the broader Idaho economy.”

— Zak Miller, CEO, Idaho Farm Bureau Federation (eastidahonews.com)

“Let's give President Trump the space he needs to solve the workforce problem and stay away from government red tape policies like E-Verify.”

— Tommy Ahlquist, CEO, Ahlquist (eastidahonews.com)

What’s next

Idaho lawmakers will decide whether to implement additional E-Verify requirements for employers, which could impact the state's foreign-born workforce.

The takeaway

This study highlights the potential economic consequences for Idaho if a significant portion of its foreign-born workforce were removed, underscoring the importance of informed policymaking on immigration issues that considers the broader economic impacts.