Assembly Bill 281 aims to enhance employment eligibility verification processes for state and local government contracts and hiring practices in Wisconsin. The bill introduces a requirement that all employers seeking to contract with the state must utilize the Federal Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify) to confirm that their employees are eligible to work in the United States. Specifically, the bill prohibits state agencies from entering into contracts with employers who are not enrolled in E-Verify or who knowingly employ individuals identified as ineligible to work. Additionally, it amends existing statutes to create new sections that outline these requirements and establish penalties for non-compliance, including the termination of contracts without liability.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that state and local government units verify the identity of prospective employees through E-Verify before offering employment. This requirement applies to all hiring practices initiated after the bill's effective date. The legislation also includes provisions that ensure contracts contain written notifications of these requirements, and it specifies that these verification obligations will not apply if the E-Verify program is discontinued. Overall, Assembly Bill 281 seeks to strengthen the integrity of employment practices within state and local governments by ensuring that only eligible individuals are hired and that contractors comply with federal verification standards.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 16.75(1)(a)1, 16.75, 16.855(1m), 16.855