As of July 1, a new Florida state law requires private businesses with at least 25 workers to use the E-Verify digital tool to verify workers’ legal immigration status.
So what exactly is this new law, and how will it affect your business?
READ MORE: Florida’s new immigration law to require private employers to use E-Verify
A Close Look at Florida’s New E-Verify Requirements for Private Employers
On May 10, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1718 into law. It requires all private employers in Florida with 25 or more employees to utilize the E-Verify digital tool in addition to completing Form I-9.
The electronic employment eligibility verification system is administered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The law applies to any new employees hired on or after July 1 and utilizes digital records from federal government databases such as Social Security Administration records and U.S. Department of Homeland Security records.
Additional requirements:
- The law requires employers to retain verification records for a minimum of three years. Annual certification by employers is required when filing corporate tax returns. It’s also necessary when making contributions to (or reimbursing) the state’s unemployment system.
- Penalties for noncompliance go into effect on July 1, 2024. Businesses found noncompliant will have 30 days to resolve that status following notification from the State’s Department of Economic Opportunity.
- First-time violations will result in a one-year probation period. Such violations will trigger mandatory quarterly reporting requirements.
- A second employer violation within 24 months could lead to a state license suspension. The duration of suspension will be based on the number of unauthorized workers employed.
- Employers that fail to use the system as required for three or more times in any 24-month period will face fines of up to $1,000 per day until the violation is corrected.
- Independent contractors and service workers, such as house cleaners, landscapers and day laborers who are hired directly by homeowners or other occupants of a private residence, are not considered employees and are exempt.
- E-Verify is already mandatory in Florida for public and private employers that contract with state and local agencies.
Integrity Employee Leasing Has Your E-Verify Solutions
A major benefit of utilizing a PEO (Professional Employer Organization) is the guidance and accountability that such professional relationships provide. A team of trained professionals who specialize in compliance are available to answer any and all questions regarding new laws and regulations. E-Verify services are no exception.
In an effort to be proactive, Integrity Employee Leasing is having clients with 20 or more employees utilize E-Verify, rather than the mandated 25-employee minimum.
Integrity Employee Leasing offers two unique options for clients with at least 20 employees:
- Employers can register with the web-based E-Verify platform free of charge. Integrity Employee Leasing’s dedicated Human Resources team will provide guidance and training on how to navigate.
- Integrity Employee Leasing also offers direct E-Verify processing on behalf of clients for a cost of $4 per new hire.
Spreading the Word on E-Verify Solutions
The hard work and perseverance of owning and operating a business comes with a multitude of rewards — but those rewards can also come with obstacles.
One of the biggest obstacles that small- and medium-sized business owners face is keeping up with ever-changing laws to remain compliant.
We know that trying to understand (and comply with) new laws can be stressful and intimidating for business owners. Integrity Employment Leasing is dedicated to handling those time-consuming, core back-office HR functions to better allow business owners to do what they do best.
Let us melt away the anxiety that comes with compliance. Give us a call at (941) 625-0623. Our trained team members are ready and waiting to answer your questions about E-Verify solutions.
