FEDERAL CONTACTORS MUST SOON

COMPLY WITH E-VERIFY

If you are a federal contractor, you need to be aware of significant regulatory changes currently being considered regarding the federal government's "E-Verify" system.  E-Verify is an Internet-based system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that allows employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of their employees.  E-Verify electronically compares the information provided by the employee on their I-9 with the information contained in both the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration databases.  As of this date, the E-Verify program remains a volunteer program for all employers, including federal contractors.
 
However, on June 9, 2008, President Bush amended Executive Order 12989 to require federal contractors to participate in E-Verify as a term for future federal contracts.  The amended Executive Order 12989 further instructs various federal agencies to amend current regulations to implement these changes.  On June 12, 2008, various federal agencies submitted proposed rulemaking changes that would implement the changes set forth in Executive Order 12989. 
 
This proposed rule change is not a final rule.  Public comments on the proposed rule changes must be submitted on or before August 12, 2008.  Moreover, the final rule will not be effective until 30 days after publication.  However, if you are a federal contractor, be aware that E-Verify will be a requirement in the coming months.
 
Please contact Dave Andrews or Jerry Cline if you have any questions regarding E-Verify.