Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2823

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, and authorizing the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for the knowing employment of persons not lawfully present in this state; authorizing a fee.

Impact

The implications of HB 2823 on state laws include the establishment of a framework for verifying employee eligibility based on federal guidelines. State agencies will be prohibited from awarding contracts unless the contractors verify their employees' legal work status through E-Verify. Contractual obligations will include a certification from contractors regarding their compliance with this requirement. Failure to adhere to the established verification process could lead to barring from future state contracts and the potential suspension of business licenses for employers found to be knowingly hiring individuals not legally present in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 2823 mandates that state contractors and political subdivisions in Texas utilize the federal E-Verify program for employment verification. This legislation aims to ensure that individuals employed by these entities are legally authorized to work in the United States. By compelling the participation of contractors in the E-Verify system, the bill seeks to curtail illegal employment practices and enhance job security for lawful residents, thereby reinforcing compliance with federal immigration laws.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the enforcement and practical implications of the E-Verify requirements. Critics of the bill may raise concerns regarding the burden it places on small businesses, which might struggle with compliance costs and administrative responsibilities associated with keeping up with verification processes. Additionally, there may be apprehension regarding the accuracy of the E-Verify system, which could inadvertently lead to wrongful terminations or discrimination claims against employers. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for maintaining the integrity of the workforce and protecting jobs for legally present individuals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1660

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.

TX HB1336

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.

TX HB1453

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, and authorizing the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for the knowing employment of persons not lawfully present in this state; authorizing a fee.

TX SB1928

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, and authorizing the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for the knowing employment of unauthorized aliens; authorizing a fee.

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 HB3210

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 SB324

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.

Similar Bills

TX SB1928

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, and authorizing the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for the knowing employment of unauthorized aliens; authorizing a fee.

TX HB1453

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, and authorizing the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for the knowing employment of persons not lawfully present in this state; authorizing a fee.

TX HB630

Relating to requiring state contractors and governmental entities to participate in the federal electronic verification of work authorization program, or E-Verify, and authorizing the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for the knowing employment of persons not lawfully present in this state; authorizing a fee.

TX HB2301

Relating to requiring state contractors and governmental entities to participate in the federal electronic verification of work authorization program, or E-Verify, and authorizing the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for the knowing employment of persons not lawfully present in this state; authorizing a fee.

TX HB1488

Relating to employment practices of governmental entities, state contractors, and private employers in this state regarding the legal status of employees, including requiring participation in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify program, and authorizing the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for certain conduct in relation to the employment of persons not lawfully present; providing an administrative penalty.

TX SB85

Relating to the verification of employment authorization by state contractors and state grant recipients, including the use of the federal E-verify program, and to authorization for the suspension of certain licenses held by private employers for the knowing employment of persons not lawfully present in this state; authorizing a fee.

TX HB2744

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; creating civil penalties.

DE HB89

An Act To Amend Titles 19 And 29 Relating To Home Improvement Dispute Resolution.