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Ohio enacts E-Verify Workforce Integrity Act for nonresidential construction and public works
Summary
House Bill 246 requires E-Verify for employers on nonresidential construction and public works projects, aims to reduce unauthorized workers and protect local labor; sponsors and labor representatives supported the bill, which passed unanimously.
The Ohio House approved House Bill 246, the E-Verify Workforce Integrity Act, requiring certain nonresidential construction and public-works employers to use E-Verify when hiring and directing sanctions for specified hiring practices in the industry.
Representative Fisher, sponsor of the bill, said the legislation responds to concerns about unauthorized workers taking jobs and undercutting wages for Ohioans. "This would mandate E-Verify for non-residential construction and public works projects," Fisher said, adding that other states have adopted similar requirements and that proponents cite reductions in unauthorized workers.
Representative Swearingen, a joint sponsor, described the bill as a long-vetted effort that has moved from opposition to neutral for some stakeholders after multiple revisions. Representative McNally, speaking in favor, said organized labor had advocated for the change to protect wages and competitive bidding.
Supporters pointed to National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) data cited in debate showing an 83% reduction in unauthorized workers in jurisdictions with E-Verify-type mandates; supporters said the law will help ensure contracts are not awarded at the expense of law-abiding employers and workers. The House passed HB 246 by a roll call of 92-0. Sponsors said implementation details and enforcement will follow administrative guidance and contracting practices.
