H.B. No. 1308 seeks to enhance employment verification practices for governmental entities, state contractors, and private employers in Texas by mandating participation in the federal E-Verify program. The bill allows for the suspension of licenses for employers who hire individuals not lawfully present in the United States and introduces civil actions for recovering amounts owed to public agencies. Key amendments include renaming Chapter 2264 to "Certain Restrictions on Public Subsidies and State Contracts," defining the E-Verify program, and establishing that state agencies cannot award contracts unless contractors and their subcontractors are registered with E-Verify. The attorney general is granted the authority to investigate violations and bar non-compliant contractors from state contracts.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of licensing authorities in response to suspension orders from the attorney general, requiring immediate verification of licenses and specific actions upon receipt of such orders. It prohibits employers from knowingly hiring unauthorized individuals and establishes a process for reporting violations, with penalties for non-compliance, including potential license suspension for two years. The bill also mandates that state agencies ensure compliance with the new regulations, adopt necessary rules, and certify compliance with Chapter 53 when reporting wages. Certain provisions will take effect on January 1, 2027, while the overall act will become effective on September 1, 2025, with a severability clause ensuring the validity of remaining provisions if any part is invalidated.

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