The bill titled "An Act to notify employees of an I-9 audit" proposes amendments to Chapter 149 of the General Laws in Massachusetts. It seeks to replace the existing section 19C with new language that clarifies the conditions under which employers may employ aliens, specifically those who are students, visitors, or not permanently admitted to the United States, unless they have work authorization or authorization from the attorney general. The bill also stipulates that employers must make a bona fide inquiry regarding the citizenship or immigration status of potential employees.
Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for employers to notify current employees about inspections of I-9 employment eligibility verification forms or other employment records conducted by government agencies. This notification must occur within 72 hours of receiving the federal notice of inspection, except as required by federal law. Violations of this section could result in fines ranging from $200 to $500.