Texas House Bill HB2886

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/10/11
• Refer: 3/17/11

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a work program for certain persons not legally authorized to be in the United States; providing penalties.

Impact

The legislative implications of HB 2886 are significant, as it amends state labor laws to incorporate conditions under which individuals without lawful status may work. By enabling the issuance of resident alien cards, the state aims to regulate and monitor the employment of these individuals, thereby collecting taxes that would be used to fund services provided to them. Furthermore, this legislation could shift the employment landscape in Texas, introducing new compliance measures for employers regarding the legal status of their workers and increasing penalties for non-compliance. The bill is designed to ensure that only those holding a valid resident alien card can work without facing deportation.

Summary

House Bill 2886 seeks to establish a formal work program for certain individuals not legally authorized to be in the United States. This program would create a legal framework allowing foreign nationals to obtain a Texas resident alien card, enabling them to work legally within the state while simultaneously requiring the collection of taxes on their earnings. The bill's proponents argue that it is necessary for providing clarity and structure to the employment of non-citizens, ultimately aiming to reduce illegal workforces and combat human trafficking along Texas's southern border.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 2886 remains contentious. Supporters generally include business groups and conservative legislators who see the bill as a pragmatic approach to managing labor needs and addressing illegal employment practices. They emphasize the benefits of creating a structured program for undocumented workers while ensuring that tax revenues are captured. Conversely, opponents, including immigrant rights groups and some Democrats, criticize the bill for legalizing exploitation and view it as a mechanism that could lead to further marginalization of vulnerable populations. Concerns have been raised regarding the high fee required for the resident alien card and fears of increased penalties and deportation for non-compliant individuals.

Contention

Notably, HB 2886 contains provisions that could significantly impact the rights of individuals without lawful status, particularly regarding wage reporting and potential deportation for violations. The bill allows for the revocation of a resident alien card upon conviction of certain offenses and imposes strict monitoring through the Texas Workforce Commission. Moreover, the bill stipulates that employers who hire individuals without a resident alien card face hefty fines, which raises questions about the burden placed on businesses versus the protections afforded to workers. These contentious elements have sparked debates about the balance between regulation and the rights of non-citizens in the labor market.