OKLAHOMA CITY – Members of the Oklahoma Legislative Latino Caucus commented on a new study from the Institution on Taxation and Economic Policy that reports around 89,000 undocumented immigrants in Oklahoma paid $227.5 million in state and local taxes in fiscal year 2022.
“Numbers don’t lie,” said Sen. Michael Brooks, D-Oklahoma City. “This study reinforces what most Oklahomans can plainly see with their own eyes; that our undocumented neighbors contribute toward the betterment of our state. Whether it is by paying taxes, buying homes, paying rent, making charitable contributions or by workforce contributions, the immigrant community plays a critical role in Oklahoma’s economy, and we are glad that there are available figures to substantiate that fact.”
Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, D-Oklahoma City, says supporting undocumented Oklahomans brings in revenue.
“A common misconception is that immigrants place substantial burdens on state governments and school districts,” Alonso-Sandoval said. “Many of these claims aren’t based on facts; rather, they’re political talking points used to divide Oklahomans from their migrant neighbors. The reality is that undocumented immigrants pay into state and federal programs they aren’t eligible for, which actually benefits U.S. citizens by increasing funding for those services. This study proves it: more money is going into our system, supporting programs that serve our communities.”
Rep. Annie Menz, D-Norman, says mass deportations would cost the state millions.
“These are families, workers, and folks who have lived in the U.S. for longer than sixteen years,” Menz said. “When you look at these facts, and the narratives being spun up by certain politicians, there is an obvious disconnect here. Someone’s lyin’ and numbers don’t lie. I understand the cultural stress some folks feel when it comes to immigration, I really do. But the next time someone talks about mass deportations from Oklahoma, they should ask themselves if they have $227.5 million to pay for it. I’m sure they can cut a check to the Oklahoma Tax Commission.”
The full study can be found at itep.org