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WV HB4198

Bill

Status

Engrossed

2/10/2026

Primary Sponsor

Elias Coop-Gonzalez

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Requires all West Virginia employers to register for E-Verify and verify new employees' work authorization through the federal electronic verification system before permanent employment
  • Establishes a tiered penalty system: formal warning for first-time single violations, $2,500 fine per violation for second offenses or multiple unauthorized workers, and $5,000 fine plus potential license revocation for third or subsequent violations
  • Employers assessed fines are placed on a public list and barred from bidding on state contracts for one year
  • Prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances that limit or contradict the Labor Commissioner's enforcement of employment verification requirements
  • Provides civil liability protection for employers who terminate workers to comply with E-Verify requirements, shielding them from wrongful termination lawsuits

Legislative Description

E-Verify Safe Harbor Act

Last Action

Senate requests House to concur

3/14/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/11/2026
Government Organization1/14/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available