The bill amends the Revised Code to enhance the use of the E-Verify employment verification system among Ohio employers, specifically targeting construction contractors, subcontractors, and labor brokers, now referred to as "covered employers." It introduces the definition of "covered employee," which includes individuals working for construction contractors, child care staff, and employees in educational institutions and government entities. Covered employers are mandated to verify the employment eligibility of each covered employee through E-Verify and maintain records of this verification. The bill also establishes penalties for non-compliance, including fines and disqualification from state contracts for employers with multiple violations.

Additionally, the bill replaces references to "contractor, subcontractor, or labor broker" with "covered employer" throughout various sections related to employment law violations concerning unauthorized workers. The attorney general is empowered to present evidence of violations and is restricted from issuing notices of violation for isolated technical errors in the E-Verify program. The legislation outlines penalties for violations, including financial penalties and a two-year disqualification from bidding on state contracts. It also mandates the maintenance of a list of ineligible employers and requires state agencies to include compliance provisions in contracts with covered employers, while streamlining the enforcement process by repealing existing sections of the Revised Code related to these matters.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4151.01, 4151.02, 4151.03, 4151.04, 4151.05, 4151.06, 4151.07