Texas House Bill HB1222

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to 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 proposed legislation carries significant implications for state laws regarding labor and immigration. On one hand, it seeks to protect legal employment opportunities for residents and improve overall compliance with federal immigration laws. On the other hand, by allowing for the suspension of all licenses held by an employer found to be in violation, the bill raises concerns surrounding potential overreach and the fairness of such penalties, especially for businesses that may inadvertently employ individuals unlawfully. Employers will be required to maintain meticulous records of their employees' verification documents, which could impose an additional administrative burden, particularly on smaller businesses.

Summary

House Bill 1222 aims to enforce stricter compliance regarding the employment of individuals not lawfully present in the state of Texas. It establishes a clear prohibition against the knowing employment of such individuals by private employers, introducing severe consequences that include the suspension of licenses held by the violators. The bill emphasizes the responsibility of employers not only to avoid hiring unauthorized workers but also to verify the employment eligibility of their employees, thereby reinforcing laws around immigration and labor compliance. Additionally, it empowers the Texas Workforce Commission to adopt rules for administering these provisions, indicating that the enforcement will be supported by a structured regulatory framework.

Contention

Notably, the bill has been the subject of contention among various stakeholders. Proponents argue that the legislation is necessary to curtail illegal employment practices that undermine labor standards and contribute to unfair competition in the marketplace. Detractors, however, express concern over the broad authority given to the Texas Workforce Commission and the perceived harshness of the penalties, fearing that it may lead to unjust repercussions for employers even in cases of minimal infractions. The potential for heightened scrutiny and the ramifications of a suspended license could deter some employers from hiring altogether, thereby affecting job availability in the state.