E-Verify
A newly enacted Pennsylvania law requires contractors and subcontractors who wish to work under state contracts to use “E-Verify” to confirm employment eligibility of their workers.
E-Verify is an internet-based program maintained and administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. E-Verify allows employers to input an employee’s identifying information and have that information compared to existing DHS and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.
Senate Bill 637 requires the Pennsylvania Department of General Services to create an E-Verify usage certification form for employers to sign, under penalty of perjury, to verify they have enrolled in and are using the system for all new hires starting on January 1, 2013.
According to the new law, providing a false certification is punishable by a fine of $250 to $1,000. Employers may also be penalized for failing to enroll in E-Verify and for failing to verify each new employee’s eligibility. The penalties range from a warning and publication for the first offense, to being barred for up to three years from engaging in state public works contracts for repeated, willful violations.
If you have questions about Pennsylvania employment law, the new E-Verify law, or any other topic concerning your business, the attorneys at the Scolieri-Beam Law Group, P.C. can help. Located in western Pennsylvania, our attorneys are experienced in Pennsylvania business law and can help you navigate regulations affecting your business. Contact us today at (412)765-0546 or info@scolierilaw.com.