Texas Senate committee backs SB 324 to mandate E Verify for all employers

In a pivotal meeting of the Texas Senate Committee on Business and Commerce, lawmakers gathered on April 22, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 324, a proposed legislation aimed at tightening employment verification processes across the state. The bill mandates that all employers, both public and private, utilize the E-Verify system to confirm the legal work status of their employees. This requirement extends to contractors and subcontractors of state agencies, ensuring that no state contracts are awarded to those who do not comply.

As the discussion unfolded, the bill's author emphasized the importance of E-Verify as a tool to combat illegal immigration and protect job opportunities for U.S. citizens. "E-Verify is the most functional and cost-effective method the state of Texas can implement to stem the flow of illegal immigration," the author stated, highlighting that the system is free and user-friendly. The bill also grants the state comptroller the authority to bar non-compliant contractors from state contracts for up to a year, with potential extensions for continued violations.

Support for the bill came from various stakeholders, including representatives from labor unions and advocacy groups. Jeremy Hendricks, speaking on behalf of the Laborers International Union of North America, argued that the legislation is essential for ensuring fair competition among employers. He noted that without universal E-Verify requirements, law-abiding businesses are often undercut by those who exploit undocumented labor, undermining fair wages and workplace safety.

Other supporters echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the bill would not only protect jobs for legal workers but also enhance safety and quality in construction projects. Rick Lord, representing the Texas Building and Construction Trades, shared concerns about unlicensed workers compromising safety standards in critical infrastructure projects, underscoring the need for accountability in hiring practices.

The committee also heard from opponents of illegal immigration, who argued that the bill would help curb the hiring of unauthorized workers, thereby reducing the economic burden on the state. They pointed to successful implementations of similar laws in other states, which have reportedly led to significant reductions in illegal labor.

As the meeting progressed, questions arose regarding the potential impact on small businesses, with some committee members acknowledging the additional responsibilities that E-Verify might impose. However, proponents maintained that the ease of the system would mitigate these concerns.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing consensus on the need for stricter employment verification measures in Texas, with SB 324 positioned as a critical step toward ensuring that all workers in the state are legally authorized to work. As the bill moves forward, its implications for Texas's labor market and immigration policies will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.