Texas House Bill HB1202

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/9/11
• Refer: 3/1/11

Caption

Relating to the creation of the offense of employing or contracting with an unauthorized alien.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1202 would align state law more closely with federal immigration mandates, further complicating the hiring process for employers. The bill defines 'unauthorized alien' according to federal standards, and while it outlines specific exceptions to the prosecution, such as contracting for work at a single-family residence or making a good faith effort to verify immigration status, it nonetheless creates stricter enforcement mechanisms that holders of employment contracts must navigate. Employers would need to implement additional verification processes to avoid inadvertent violations.

Summary

House Bill 1202 aims to create an offense of employing or contracting with an unauthorized alien in the state of Texas. It proposes amendments to the Texas Penal Code by introducing a new chapter that establishes clear definitions and penalties related to contracts involving unauthorized workers. The bill dictates that individuals who knowingly employ or contract with unauthorized aliens could face state jail felony charges, significantly heightening the consequences for non-compliance with federal immigration laws.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1202 appears to be mixed, often reflecting broader national debates on immigration policy. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to uphold the rule of law and deter illegal employment practices that undermine labor standards and job opportunities for legal residents. On the other hand, opponents contend that the bill may lead to unintended consequences, such as discrimination in hiring practices or increased fear among workers regarding their immigration status, potentially undermining the safety and economic contributions of immigrant communities.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the bill's implications for local economies and communities that rely on immigrant labor. Critics highlight the risk of exacerbating labor shortages in certain industries, particularly those dependent on seasonal or low-wage labor, which are often filled by unauthorized workers. The enforcement of such a measure may destabilize the workforce in various sectors, triggering debates on the balance between immigration control and economic needs within Texas.