Bill > HB1974

This bill establishes the E-Verify Requirement Act, which mandates that all state government entities in Arkansas use the E-Verify system to confirm the employment eligibility of new employees. The bill defines key terms such as "employee" (anyone performing labor for a state employer), "E-Verify" (an electronic verification system operated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), and "unauthorized alien" (as defined by federal law). Under the new requirements, state employers must register for an E-Verify account, provisionally employ new workers until their work authorization is verified, and maintain records of these verifications. Employers are prohibited from employing unauthorized aliens, and if they fail to use E-Verify, they will be given a 30-day period to cure non-compliance starting July 1, 2026. The bill is rooted in legislative findings that emphasize protecting Arkansans, ensuring a legal workforce, and using taxpayer resources responsibly. The law will take effect on January 1, 2026, and applies to new hires, with existing employees grandfathered in and not requiring reverification.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1974&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R