Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1336

Caption

Relating to requiring state contractors and political subdivisions of this state to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1336 is expected to significantly change how state contracts are awarded and maintained. By requiring participation in the E-verify program, the bill seeks to enhance the integrity of the labor force employed by state contractors and rewards those who adhere to strict employment verification laws. Additionally, contractors found in violation of the requirements could face a bar from participating in state contracts for a period of up to one year or longer, creating a strong financial incentive for compliance.

Summary

House Bill 1336 mandates that state contractors and political subdivisions in Texas must participate in the federal E-verify program for employment verification. This law aims to ensure that employers verify the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States, thereby addressing concerns related to illegal employment practices. The bill outlines specific procedures that must be followed by both the contractors and the public subdivisions when it comes to the verification of employee eligibility, making compliance a crucial aspect of contracting with the state.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill has faced criticism and concerns regarding its impact on local governance and the burden it may place on small contractors. Opponents worry that the strict requirements of the E-verify program could render it challenging for smaller businesses to meet these standards, thus limiting their opportunities to contract with the state. Additionally, there are concerns that such mandates could disproportionately affect certain populations and create obstacles for legitimate employment opportunities. Proponents argue, however, that the law is necessary to maintain fair employment practices and protect job opportunities for legal workers.

Companion Bills

TX HB1660

Same As Relating to requiring state contractors and political subdivisions of this state to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3846

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.

TX SB1621

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.

TX HB602

Relating to requiring political subdivisions of this state to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.

TX SB81

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.

TX SB356

Relating to a franchise tax credit for a taxable entity that participates in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program.

TX HB2749

Relating to the verification of the veteran status of inmates and prisoners.

TX SB541

Relating to the barring of certain vendors from participation in contracts with the state or a political subdivision and to prohibiting the use of technologies manufactured or sold by certain of those vendors.

TX HB178

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.

TX SB513

Relating to the verification of the accuracy of an application for a license to practice medicine in this state.

TX HB1476

Relating to a limitation on the salary paid to officers and employees of this state and political subdivisions of this state.

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