HB 1315 Summary

• Every private employer must use the E-Verify system to verify employment eligibility of new employees beginning January 1, 2013; businesses failing to comply lose their license until registered with E-Verify.

• Employers are prohibited from knowingly employing unauthorized aliens; violations result in orders to terminate the employee and file an affidavit within 10 days or face license suspension.

• Second violations within 2 years trigger suspension of all business licenses for at least 30 days; state agencies must notify federal immigration enforcement and local law enforcement when unauthorized aliens are identified.

• Employers properly using E-Verify in good faith receive civil immunity; employees wrongfully discharged in favor of unauthorized aliens can sue for reinstatement, back pay, court costs, and attorney fees.

• Public employers, contractors, and subcontractors must register with and participate in E-Verify for all public contracts involving physical performance of services in Florida; violations result in immediate contract termination and 1-year debarment from public contracts.