Bill > S2665

This bill amends Chapter 149 of Massachusetts General Laws to require employers to notify current employees within 72 hours of receiving a federal notice of inspection regarding I-9 employment eligibility verification forms or other employment records. The bill reinforces existing provisions that make it unlawful for employers to knowingly employ unauthorized aliens, while providing a specific timeline and mechanism for notifying employees about government employment eligibility audits. Employers can avoid penalties by demonstrating they have made a good faith effort to verify an employee's work authorization status, such as checking whether an individual is a citizen, a permanent resident, or has work authorization. If an employer violates these provisions, they can be fined between $200 and $500. The bill aims to ensure transparency in employment eligibility verification processes and give employees timely information about potential government investigations into their work authorization status. The legislation requires the commissioner to establish specific regulations for employers to comply with these requirements.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2665