As state leaders prepare for upcoming legislative sessions, a new analysis reveals how states are adopting policies to support immigrant well-being and economic potential.
WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov. 9, 2026 — In the wake of the midterm elections, the American Immigration Council has launched a new analytical tool called the States Index, which evaluates the role of states in shaping immigration policy. This interactive resource provides insights into how states across the political spectrum are implementing policies that promote the well-being and inclusion of immigrants within their communities.
While comprehensive immigration reform remains stalled at the federal level, many states are proactively enacting measures aimed at supporting immigrant populations. These policies range from limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement to initiatives designed to bolster local economies and enhance prosperity for all residents.
The States Index assesses state policies across four critical areas: workforce, education and occupational licensure; access to services and basic needs; government infrastructure; and immigration enforcement and federal cooperation. Each state receives scores in these categories, reflecting the extent to which their policies foster an inclusive environment for immigrants to thrive and engage fully in their communities.
One area of bipartisan support highlighted in the Index is workforce integration, where states of varying political affiliations are focusing on the inclusion of immigrant workers in their labor markets. For instance, North Dakota has directed its Global Talent Office to devise strategies aimed at helping businesses recruit and retain immigrant workers. This initiative underscores the recognition among states, even those not traditionally seen as major immigrant destinations, of the economic benefits that immigration can bring, particularly in regions facing workforce shortages.
“Policymakers in state houses around the country are recognizing that the economy continues to be the primary concern for most Americans,” said Jeremy Robbins, executive director of the American Immigration Council. “By embracing policies focused on economic opportunities and the well-being of all community members, including immigrants, states can create safe, connected communities and promote the small businesses that truly power the country.”
The Index also reveals a concerning trend: states experiencing the most rapid growth in their immigrant populations have been slower to adopt policies that enable newcomers to fully leverage their skills, education, and professional experience. On average, states with the fastest-growing immigrant populations scored just 1.05 out of 5 on the States Index, compared to an overall state average of 1.65. This discrepancy highlights a gap between the growth of immigrant communities and the implementation of supportive policies, potentially causing missed opportunities for employers and communities to address workforce shortages and drive economic growth.
Designed to assist policymakers, the States Index aims to identify practical approaches that uplift all community members, including through policies that foster economic growth and inclusive environments. For example, in Oregon, state policymakers have established a right-to-counsel program to connect immigrants with legal services, while New Jersey has made strides in expanding language access across state government services.
Although the federal government sets the framework for immigration, states significantly influence the daily experiences of immigrants. By analyzing existing policies across the nation, the States Index offers a clearer understanding of current state standings and opportunities for mutual learning.
“By using the States Index, local communities can learn from the experiences of other states to better understand the implications of immigration-related policies,” said Nan Wu, director of research at the American Immigration Council. “It’s a tool that can inform state advocates and policymakers as they develop a roadmap in response to the needs of their constituents.”
Rich André, director of state and local initiatives at the American Immigration Council, added, “The States Index captures the pivotal role that states play in the protections and well-being of all residents, including immigrant communities. It also provides policymakers and advocates with a resource to better understand the range of state policies available to them, enabling them to learn from other states, iterate and improve policy ideas, and advance solutions informed by local needs, political context, and best practices.”
For more information, visit the States Index and explore the policy spotlights.
The analysis highlights the ongoing evolution of state-level immigration policies and their impact on communities across the United States, according to the American Immigration Council.