Youngstown Times

State Representative Monica Robb Blasdel has expressed her support for the E-Verify Workforce Integrity Act, known as H.B. 246. The legislation aims to ensure that all workers hired for covered construction projects in Ohio are legally authorized to work in the United States.

"HB 246 offers employers peace of mind that new hires are legally eligible for employment. It reassures investors that contractors and sub-contractors are utilizing a legal workforce, and it is protecting jobs for authorized workers in the State of Ohio," stated Robb Blasdel.

The bill mandates that all contractors, subcontractors, and labor brokers involved in public works projects for state agencies and political subdivisions use the federal E-Verify program to verify employee eligibility. This requirement extends to private-sector contractors engaged in nonresidential construction.

Additionally, the legislation grants authority to the Attorney General to investigate suspected violations, issue notices of violation, and seek enforcement through the courts if necessary.

Penalties outlined in the bill include fines, disqualification from state contracts for up to two years, and license suspension or revocation when unauthorized workers are knowingly employed.

House Bill 246 will now proceed to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.