MO HB2228

Prohibits businesses and employers from knowingly employing unauthorized aliens in Missouri.

Requires state contractors receiving contracts or grants over $5,000 to affirm enrollment in a federal work authorization program and annually certify they do not employ unauthorized aliens.

Establishes enforcement process through the Missouri Attorney General to investigate complaints, verify immigration status through federal government, and impose penalties including license suspension and debarment from state contracts.

Provides employers participating in federal work authorization programs with an affirmative defense against violations and allows employers to verify work eligibility of new hires.

Penalizes businesses for first violations with up to three-year suspension from state business and permanent debarment for subsequent violations; disallows tax deductions for compensation paid to unauthorized aliens.