Bill > A05837

This bill requires employers working on state-funded public works projects to verify the employment eligibility of their employees through a comprehensive process. The bill defines key terms such as "employer" (any entity authorized to hire workers for state-funded construction projects), "unauthorized noncitizen" (a noncitizen without legal work authorization), and "state-funded public works project" (construction projects partially or fully funded by the state). Employers must ensure that all individuals complete Form I-9 before starting work, examine the form to confirm proper completion, file the form with the Department of Homeland Security, use the employment eligibility verification system, and receive confirmation that the individual is not an unauthorized noncitizen. If an employer knowingly hires an unauthorized noncitizen to work on such a project, they will not receive funding for the project. Penalties for violations include a formal warning for the first offense and potential misdemeanor charges for subsequent violations, which can result in up to one year of imprisonment, a fine of up to $25,000 per violation, or both. The bill will take effect one year after becoming law, with implementation subject to federal immigration regulations.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5837