GoffWilson Immigration bLAWg

The Obama Administration has made good on its April promise to crack down on employers who employ undocumented individuals. Today, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued Notices of Inspection to 652 businesses. These businesses will now have only three days to present all of their I-9 forms for inspection. This is a dramatic action by ICE who issued only 503 NOIs in all of 2008. The story was picked up by the Associated Press; see their article here.

In their press release, ICE notes that “Inspections are one of the most powerful tools the federal government has to enforce employment and immigration laws. This new initiative illustrates ICE’s increased focus on holding employers accountable for their hiring practices and efforts to ensure a legal workforce.” These 652 businesses were targeted based on ICE’s investigations and tips. Businesses found in violation will undoubtedly face stiff civil and criminal penalties.

GoffWilson provides audit representation for businesses going through an ICE I-9 audit. If your business, or any business you know has received an NOI please do not hesitate to contact us.

Tagged: 3 days, audit, employers, Employment Authorization, I-9, I-9 Compliance, I-9 Form, ICE, illegal status, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Notice of Inspection, U.S. Immigration Customs & Enforcement, US Department of Homeland Security, USCIS, Work Authorization, Worksite Enforcement