A new study from California Lutheran University reveals that undocumented workers contribute $441 billion annually to California's GDP, over 11% of the state's economy, and pay billions in taxes while being unable to access most public benefits. - Undocumented workers account for nearly 6% of California's GDP directly, and over 11% when indirect effects are included.
- They make up nearly half of agricultural workers, 22% of construction, and 20% of retail trade. - Despite paying an estimated $16 billion in taxes annually, they cannot access Social Security, Medicare, or unemployment benefits.
The study warns that mass deportations under the Trump administration would cause severe economic damage to California, not just a humanitarian crisis.