Bill > S0585

This bill establishes the E-Verify Compliance Act, which requires all non-governmental employers in Rhode Island with three or more employees to apply to and participate in the federal E-Verify program, a digital system for verifying the work eligibility of newly hired employees. The bill sets staggered implementation dates based on company size, with larger employers (200+ employees) required to apply by January 1, 2026, mid-sized employers (50-199 employees) by July 1, 2026, and smaller employers (fewer than 50 employees) by January 1, 2027. Employers must apply to the program at least every 60 days until accepted, and once accepted, must actively participate in E-Verify. They must notify the Department of Labor and Training within seven business days of applying and being accepted, providing their E-Verify company identification number. The bill requires employers to terminate employment of any worker who receives a final non-confirmation of work eligibility from the Department of Homeland Security. Employers acting in good faith are exempt from liability, and the Department of Labor and Training will be responsible for notifying employers about the requirements and providing compliance information. The legislative findings emphasize that this measure is intended to ensure employers follow federal employment laws, protect law-abiding employers, and verify the work authorization of new employees.

Labor and Employment

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