Bill > S1315

This bill introduces comprehensive regulations for employment verification in Massachusetts, requiring employers to use the E-verify program (a federal system that checks an employee's work authorization status) to confirm the eligibility of new hires. The legislation mandates that employers cannot intentionally or knowingly employ unauthorized aliens and establishes a detailed enforcement mechanism through the attorney general and district attorneys. Under the bill, employers who violate these rules face escalating penalties, including mandatory termination of unauthorized employees, a three-year probationary period for first-time violations, potential license suspensions or revocations, and the requirement to file sworn affidavits confirming compliance. The bill also creates a complaint process for reporting potential violations, with protections against discriminatory complaints, and requires employers seeking economic development incentives to demonstrate participation in the E-verify program. Additionally, the attorney general is tasked with maintaining a database of violating employers, conducting random audits, and publishing a quarterly list of employers registered with E-verify. The legislation aims to ensure workplace immigration law compliance while providing employers with opportunities to rectify potential inadvertent violations through good faith efforts.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1315