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JFAC approves language directing Department of Labor to study E‑Verify costs and effects
Summary
JFAC approved intent language March 20 directing the Department of Labor to report by Dec. 15, 2025 on costs and benefits of using E‑Verify and the impact of illegal immigration on the state's labor market; some members questioned data availability.
The Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee on March 20 approved language directing the Idaho Department of Labor to report on the costs and benefits of using E‑Verify and the impact of illegal immigration on the state’s labor market, with a report deadline of Dec. 15, 2025.
Analyst Christopher Pre (transcript label: Mr. Pree) introduced the language; committee members debated whether the department can produce data on workers’ immigration status. Senator Wintrow objected during earlier unanimous consent requests and said the data being requested may not exist because state agencies do not collect or make determinations of legal immigration status; she cautioned the report could come back empty for that reason.
Supporters said the committee could learn from other states that use E‑Verify and that the study could still yield useful information. After discussion, the committee approved the language: the combined committees recorded 17 ayes and 3 nays and the motion will carry a due‑pass recommendation.
The committee’s discussion explicitly noted limits on state data collection: several speakers warned the Department of Labor does not currently collect immigration‑status data and that conclusions will be shaped by what information is available from other states or industry estimates.
