I-9 investigations - the US government cracks down

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is cracking down on business owners who employ illegal immigrants. On July 1st, ICE sent out Notices of Inspection to 652 businesses nationwide. This is a significant increase from last year’s number of 503 notices. John Morton, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary of ICE explained, “ICE is committed to establishing a meaningful I-9 inspection program to promote compliance with the law. This nationwide effort is a first step in ICE’s long-term strategy to address and deter illegal employment.”

When an employer hires a new employee, the employer is required to complete an Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9) form, which entails checking the individual’s identity documents and verifying that the individual is legally authorized to work in the United States. The employer is required to review the documents and confirm that they are genuine and related to the individual. Failure to comply with the I-9 rules and provisions can result in significant monetary fines, and in egregious cases, criminal penalties.

The 652 businesses receiving the Notices of Inspection were selected based on leads and information received through investigative means. The names of the businesses are not currently being released by ICE.

This initiative is part of a new, comprehensive strategy implemented by ICE in April. The goal is to reduce the demand for illegal employment and protect employment opportunities for the nation’s lawful workforce.