Relating to requiring state contractors to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
Impact
This bill will amend existing provisions in Chapter 2264 of the Government Code, enforcing stricter controls over state agency bidding processes and contractor qualifications. It establishes clear consequences if contractors fail to uphold participation in the E-verify program during their contract tenure. If a contractor is found to have been awarded a contract while not currently compliant with E-verify requirements, they can face a five-year debarment from future state contracts, escalating the stakes for contractor accountability.
Summary
SB401 requires state contractors in Texas to register and participate in the federal E-verify program, which is an electronic employment verification system designed to ensure that workers are authorized to work in the United States. The bill aims to tighten regulations regarding the eligibility of contractors and their subcontractors for state contracts, ensuring compliance with employment verification standards. By mandating E-verify participation as a condition for the awarding of state contracts, the legislation seeks to mitigate concerns about unauthorized employment and promote lawful hiring practices among state-contracted service providers.
Contention
Notably, SB401 may provoke discussions regarding its implications on hiring and employment practices, particularly among populations where employment verification can be controversial. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary measure to ensure that state-funded jobs are allocated fairly and legally. However, opponents may raise concerns about the potential for discrimination or incorrect rejections based on inaccurate data, which could affect a contractor's ability to employ qualified workers. The bill reflects broader national conversations about immigration and labor policies.
Similar
Relating to requiring state contractors to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
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.
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.
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.
Relating to requiring political subdivisions of this state to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
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.
Requires State agencies to make good faith effort towards certain goals to use certified minority and women-owned businesses as prime contractors and subcontractors.
Requires State agencies to make good faith effort towards certain goals to use certified minority and women-owned businesses as prime contractors and subcontractors.