The "Eliminate Illegal Immigration Whistleblower Act" aims to strengthen penalties for employers who knowingly hire unauthorized aliens in South Carolina. The bill introduces Section 41-8-75 to the South Carolina Code of Laws, establishing civil penalties for such violations, which include monetary fines ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 per unauthorized alien, depending on whether it is a first or subsequent violation. Additionally, employers may be liable for three times the economic benefit gained from employing unauthorized workers. The bill also outlines a civil enforcement process that allows private individuals, referred to as "relators," to file actions on behalf of the state, with provisions for whistleblower protections and the Attorney General's involvement in these cases.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that each unauthorized alien employed constitutes a separate violation and allows the court to impose restrictions on employers found liable, such as ineligibility for state contracts or economic incentives for up to five years. The act emphasizes that its remedies are civil in nature and do not limit existing sanctions under Section 41-8-50. It also ensures that the enforcement of this section aligns with federal laws regarding employment authorization, while maintaining the authority of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation to investigate and enforce violations. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
03/04/2026: 41-8-75
Latest Version: 41-8-75