Bill > HB1488

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for employers in Texas to verify the legal employment status of workers through the E-Verify program, a federal electronic employment authorization verification system. The legislation applies to state agencies, state contractors, political subdivisions, and private employers, mandating that they register and participate in the E-Verify program for all new employees. The bill creates a new Legal Hiring Compliance Division within the Texas Workforce Commission to investigate potential violations, with the power to impose administrative penalties of $5,000 per violation for non-compliant employers. State agencies can require E-Verify compliance as a condition of professional licenses, and contractors who fail to comply may be barred from state contracts for up to one year. The bill also introduces provisions that prevent employers from misclassifying workers as independent contractors to avoid verification requirements and establishes a mechanism for reporting suspected violations. Political subdivisions must also verify employee information through E-Verify, with employees responsible for verification potentially facing immediate termination for non-compliance. The legislation aims to ensure that employers in Texas are hiring only legally authorized workers and provides a structured approach to enforcement and compliance.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1488