Relating to requiring state contractors to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.
Impact
If enacted, SB254 will significantly alter how state agencies award contracts for goods and services. It will effectively prevent any contractor from receiving state contracts unless they prove continuous participation in the E-Verify program during the duration of their contract. This requirement reinforces accountability among contractors and is intended to prevent unauthorized employment practices. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for barring contractors from future state contracts for non-compliance or if they cease participation in the program, which emphasizes a strict adherence to employment verification protocols.
Summary
SB254 aims to mandate that all state contractors must register with and participate in the federal E-Verify employment authorization program, which is designed to assist employers in verifying the employment eligibility of newly hired employees. This bill emphasizes the importance of compliance with federal immigration laws and aims to ensure that any contractor entering into agreements with state agencies is not employing unauthorized workers. By requiring contractors to participate in the E-Verify program, the state seeks to mitigate risks associated with employment practices that may violate federal laws regarding illegal immigration.
Contention
Notable concerns around SB254 stem from the implications it may have on small businesses and local contractors who may find compliance with E-Verify burdensome. Critics argue that the stringent requirements could disproportionately affect smaller firms that may lack the resources to navigate federal employment verification systems efficiently. There are also potential concerns about inaccuracies in the E-Verify system that might unjustly bar eligible contractors from state contracts. Supporters of the bill, however, frame it as a necessary measure to ensure that taxpayer money is not used to fund enterprises that violate federal employment laws, thereby promoting integrity and legality in state operations.
Duplicate
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.