Bill > H0704

This bill establishes new requirements for employers in Idaho to verify the legal employment status of their workers, aiming to prevent the hiring of unauthorized workers. It defines key terms like "alien" (a non-citizen), "e-verify" (a federal program to check work authorization), "employer," and "unauthorized worker." Employers are prohibited from knowingly hiring or continuing to employ individuals who are not legally authorized to work in the United States. They must verify an employee's legal status within three days of their start date, or by the first day if the job is shorter 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 requires the Attorney General to investigate complaints and take enforcement actions. It specifies that the federal government's determination of an individual's immigration status is the sole basis for determining if someone is an unauthorized alien in court. The bill also includes provisions for defenses, exclusions from liability for employers terminating employees to comply with the law, and states that its interpretation should align with federal law regarding employment eligibility.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

Business Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0704/