Unauthorized immigrants contribute nearly $12 billion in state and local taxes, report finds

The Trump administration’s intent to clamp down on unauthorized immigrants living in the United States could have broad economic implications for states.

Data in a newly updated Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy report out Thursday disputes the president’s contention that undocumented immigrants are a drain on taxpayers. It found those immigrants pay an estimated $11.74 billion a year in state and local taxes. 

That breaks down to more than $7 billion in sales and excise taxes, $3.6 billion in property taxes, and $1.1 billion in personal income taxes.

Dave Heller spoke with Meg Wiehe, director of programs at the institute, for NewsWorks Tonight.