The Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association said recent immigration raids have caused disruptions to the beef industry and could lead to higher prices.

The Oklahoma association released a joint statement alongside the Kansas Livestock Association and the Texas Cattle Feeders Association on Thursday, saying recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in the three states has delayed shipments of thousands of fed cattle over the past few days, which has led to millions of dollars in lost revenue and additional costs. The letter said ICE activity has caused workforce disruptions at Oklahoma, Texas and Kansas feedyards, dairies, processors, feed and grain companies, transportation hubs and community services.

The groups also said the enforcement has had a "massive chilling effect on legal, documented, skilled workers who put beef on the table and keep the cattle supply chain moving."

While the organizations said they respect the responsibility of federal agencies to enforce the law, the disruptions have come at a time of "enhanced focus and pressure on the cattle and beef supply chain."

"They are a costly and unnecessary impact to cattle producers already suffering from unwelcome political interference in both markets as well as the physical supply chain. Frustratingly, the harm these actions cause to cattle producers last for days and weeks after such operations conclude," the groups said in the letter.

The groups urged federal officials to conduct enforcement actions in a lawful and transparent manner that respects due process and communicates clearly with affected employers and communities.