Immigration in Connecticut: A Growing Opportunity

One in eight Connecticut residents (12.9%) was born outside the United States, according to 2006 U.S. Census Bureau estimates. This growth in Connecticut’s immigrant population, which is younger on average than the state’s overall population, will help to offset the workforce challenges of the state’s aging population. While the growth of immigrant workers can be a boon to Connecticut’s economy, these immigrants also face challenges. To help meet the increasing demand for a skilled and educated workforce, this report calls on policy makers to address barriers that prevent the immigrant population from reaching their full potential and making contributions to the state’s economy.