MS HB1221

Requires all Mississippi employers to verify employment authorization through E-Verify for newly hired employees, with staggered compliance deadlines based on company size (by July 1, 2008 for 250+ employees; by July 1, 2011 for all others).

Prohibits employers from discharging U.S. citizens or permanent residents while knowingly retaining unauthorized aliens in equivalent positions; employers using E-Verify are exempt from liability under this provision.

Establishes penalties for employer violations including cancellation of state contracts (up to 3 years ineligibility), loss of business licenses/permits (up to 1 year), and fines of $1,000-$5,000 per violation.

Makes it a felony for unauthorized aliens to accept employment in Mississippi, punishable by 1-5 years imprisonment, $1,000-$10,000 fine, or both; creates rebuttable presumption of flight risk for bail purposes.

Designates the Attorney General as primary enforcer with authority to bring charges against non-compliant employers; requires all state agencies and political subdivisions to cooperate with enforcement.