Welcome to Episode 101 of Law and Mortar with Trent Cotney, Partner at Adams and Reese LLP, and John Kenney, CEO of Cotney Consulting Group. This week’s episode delivers a candid discussion on the critical role immigration plays in the construction workforce, especially in roofing, and what contractors need to know to navigate evolving enforcement and compliance challenges.

🔎 Topics Covered:
✅ The reality: 38–40% of the roofing labor force is undocumented
✅ Implications of immigration raids, OSHA enforcement, and e-verify limitations
✅ Why the H-2B visa program isn’t enough to meet labor demand
✅ Employer responsibilities and how to prepare for ICE inspections
✅ Strategic guidance: focus on cash flow, short-term work, and risk awareness

If you’re a contractor, this episode is essential listening for protecting your workforce and business.

Welcome to Episode 100 of Law and Mortar, a special milestone edition featuring Trent Cotney, Partner at Adams and Reese LLP, and John Kenney, CEO of Cotney Consulting Group. In this commemorative episode, Trent and John reflect on the podcast's origins, evolution, and the industry challenges they've covered over the years.

🔎 Topics Covered:
✅ The podcast's journey from a pandemic project to 100+ episodes strong
✅ Reflections on labor shortages, market shifts, and post-COVID business resilience
✅ Tips for contractors on adapting to material constraints and economic uncertainty
✅ Networking, community, and celebrating industry events like the upcoming Florida Expo
✅ Bonus: Trent's 100-day charitable offer to support construction-focused causes

Join us in celebrating 100 episodes of insight, resilience, and real talk for the construction industry.

Welcome to Episode 99 of Law and Mortar with Trent Cotney, Partner at Adams and Reese LLP, and John Kenney, CEO of Cotney Consulting Group. This week, Trent and John break down the current political, economic, and labor uncertainties in the construction industry, including how tariffs, immigration, and automation are shaping contractor operations.
🔎 Topics Covered:
✅ Political changes and their effects on labor availability and subcontractor workflows
✅ How tariffs and immigration policies are creating industry confusion
✅ Why automation in manufacturing and field labor is gaining momentum
✅ Market uncertainty, smart purchasing decisions, and fleet leasing insights
✅ Upcoming travel and highlights from the FRC Expo
A must-listen for contractors navigating today’s complex and shifting construction landscape.