Relating to certain requirements for participation in the E-verify program; authorizing penalties.
Impact
The implementation of SB2650 will significantly affect how local and state government agencies and employers handle employment verification. The bill stipulates that no contracts for state goods or services shall be awarded to contractors who do not register for and participate in the E-verify program. Furthermore, if a contractor fails to comply, their contract may be terminated, and they may be barred from participating in future contracts. This creates an enforcement mechanism to ensure compliance with both state and federal employment laws.
Summary
Senate Bill 2650 establishes requirements for participation in the federal E-verify program, which is utilized to confirm the employment eligibility of new employees. The bill mandates that state agencies and political subdivisions verify the information of all new employees through the E-verify program or the I-9 employment eligibility verification process within three business days of employment. If the federal E-verify program is not funded, verification through E-verify is not required, but state agencies must maintain records of employee verification for three years.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding SB2650 lies in its strict punitive measures against contractors who do not adhere to the employment verification process. Critics argue this may disproportionately impact smaller businesses that may struggle with compliance due to resource constraints, potentially leading to an unfair competitive advantage for larger firms. Additionally, the requirement for immediate termination for employees responsible for the verification process increases pressure on local governments and organizations, raising concerns about overreach and the impact on workforce management.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 2264. Restrictions On Use Of Certain Public Subsidies
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 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 agreements authorizing a limitation on taxable value of certain property to provide for the creation of jobs and the generation of state and local tax revenue; authorizing fees; authorizing penalties.
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
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.