Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB739

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to requiring governmental entities to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program or E-verify.

Impact

If passed, HB739 will significantly alter hiring procedures within state and local governments. By instituting a requirement for participation in E-verify, the bill seeks to minimize the hiring of unauthorized workers. This could potentially streamline the hiring process and increase accountability among state employment practices. Furthermore, the Texas Workforce Commission is tasked with establishing rules and forms to facilitate the implementation of this verification process, likely leading to a standardized approach across various governmental entities.

Summary

House Bill 739 mandates that all governmental entities in Texas participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, commonly known as E-verify. This bill aims to ensure that all new employees hired by governmental entities are verified for their employment eligibility through this federal system. The enactment of this law reflects the state's commitment to regulating employment practices more strictly, particularly concerning immigration status.

Conclusion

Overall, HB739 represents a legislative effort to enhance the integrity of hiring within government sectors by aligning with federal immigration mandates. The implications of this proposed requirement indicate a shift towards stricter enforcement of employment eligibility laws, reflecting broader national conversations on immigration and workforce regulation.

Contention

The bill raises questions regarding its implications for employee privacy and operational efficiency within government offices. Concerns surrounding the potential administrative burden of complying with E-verify requirements may arise, as entities would need to ensure accurate and timely processing of verification requests. Additionally, there may be discussions about the potential for discrimination or errors in the verification process that could unjustly impact employees or candidates.

Companion Bills

TX SB374

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

Previously Filed As

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 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 SB356

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

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 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 HB3030

Relating to required verification of the employment history of certain job applicants.

TX HB2749

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

TX SB229

Relating to employment verification of certain health facility applicants.

TX HB5094

Relating to the administration of the financial responsibility verification program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.