I-9 Audits and Fines On The Rise

The United States ICE (Immigrations and Customs Enforcement Department) is no longer kidding around.

Last month, ICE Assistant Secretary Julie Myers stated that in 2008 there will be "a lot more I-9 inspections of employers."

Now the Bush administration has announced substantially larger penalties for knowingly hiring illegal immigrants.

"This is a way to keep that pressure up, to make sure people are complying with the law," said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff (pictured).

Under the plan, effective March 27, the minimum penalty for willingly hiring an unauthorized worker would go from $275 to $375. The maximum penalty will jump from $2,200 to $3,200, and the maximum for multiple violations will increase from $11,000 to $16,000.

Penalties for inadequate record-keeping range from $100 to $1,000 per violation - even if you unknowingly hired an illegal immigrant.

Make sure to audit your operations process. Employers are being arrested as well as fined.

It no longer makes sense to skirt the law.

Thanks to:

Dallas Morning News
Baker Donelson