BlogLine
Washington Attempts to "Modernize" Immigration
2/20/14
By: Kelly Eisenlohr-Moul
Political pundits much savvier than me are predicting that immigration “reform” likely will pass in the next year. Below is a preview of the provisions employers can expect to see:
- Mandatory E-Verify: Although Georgia already requires participation for businesses with 11 or more employees, a federal mandate is almost certain
- Increased Civil Penalties Associated with Employment Verification Violations
- Knowingly hiring unauthorized workers: $3500-$25,000 per worker!
- Failing to comply with document verification: $500-$8000 per worker!
- Reformed Social Security Administration Initiatives
- Clarifies appropriate response to “no-match” letters
- Enhanced Antidiscrimination Provisions
- Expands prohibitions on discrimination based on national origin or citizenship status
- Allows EEOC to refer charges to the Department of Justice, which is much more aggressive in their enforcement
- Increased visa opportunities for qualified foreign workers
- More opportunities for H1B and other specialty occupation immigrants
As most employers in Georgia are already obligated to use E-Verify, consider these steps to get ahead of federal immigration reform:
- Modify your EEO and anti-retaliation policies to include national origin and citizenship status; and
- Take a free webinar from USCIS on I-9 and/or E-Verify compliance