Relating to requiring political subdivisions of this state to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
Impact
The implementation of HB 1019 could result in significant changes to local employment practices within Texas. By requiring political subdivisions to utilize the E-verify system, the bill could standardize how local governments manage employment verification, potentially reducing the number of unauthorized workers. This could further lead to a more reliable workforce for public entities and might help in alleviating legal risks associated with hiring practices.
Summary
House Bill 1019 mandates that all political subdivisions within Texas, including counties, municipalities, and school districts, must register and participate in the federal E-verify program. This program is designed to verify the employment eligibility of new employees by checking their information against federal databases. The introduction of this bill aims to ensure compliance with immigration laws by confirming that those who are hired by these political entities are legally authorized to work in the United States.
Contention
There are notable points of contention surrounding HB 1019. Supporters argue that mandatory participation in the E-verify program will strengthen the state's compliance with federal immigration laws and enhance the integrity of public sector employment. Conversely, critics may contend that this mandate could impose undue administrative burdens on local governments and lead to potential job losses for undocumented workers. Additionally, concerns over privacy and data security related to employee information processed through the E-verify system have also been raised.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Local Government Code
Chapter 180. Miscellaneous Provisions Affecting Officers And Employees Of More Than One Type Of Local Government
Duplicate
Relating to requiring political subdivisions of this state to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
Relating to requiring political subdivisions of this state to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
Relating to requiring state contractors, political subdivisions of this state, and private employers to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
Relating to requiring state contractors, political subdivisions of this state, and private employers to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
Relating to certain laws that regulate aspects of illegal immigration in this state, including laws pertaining to the DNA records of certain persons subject to an immigration detainer request, the recognition of certain out-of-state driver's licenses, inviting certain federal agencies to participate on the homeland security council, the reporting of certain uncompensated hospital care costs, and certain requirements for participation in the E-verify program; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to verification of identity and employment authorization in connection with certain contracts for or concerning the conveyance of residential real property and residential leases.