Bill > H0584

This bill establishes new requirements for employers in Idaho to verify the lawful employment status of their workers, aiming to prevent the hiring of unauthorized individuals. Key provisions include defining terms like "alien" (a non-citizen), "e-verify" (a federal program to check work authorization), and "unauthorized worker" (someone not legally allowed to work). Employers are prohibited from knowingly hiring or continuing to employ unauthorized workers and must verify their legal status within three days of hiring, or by the first day of work if employment is less than three days. Starting July 1, 2026, all businesses must enroll in and use the federal e-verify program for new hires, which provides a defense against violations if used in good faith. The bill also outlines penalties for violations, including contract termination, suspension or permanent revocation of business licenses and permits, and allows the Attorney General to bring civil actions to enforce these requirements. It specifies that the federal government's determination of an individual's immigration status is the sole basis for deciding if a worker is unauthorized, and provides certain defenses for employers, such as good faith compliance with e-verify. The bill also clarifies that it does not apply to the employees of independent contractors or casual domestic labor.

Business and Industry

Business Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0584/