In “A practical assessment,” NRCA’s legal counsel Trent Cotney discusses the pros and cons of E-Verify, a web-based portal that compares information from a new hire’s Form I-9 against various government databases. Although E-Verify currently is not mandatory in all instances, Cotney notes: “Congress is debating the Accountability Through Electronic Verification Act, which would phase in a nationwide mandate and increase penalties for knowingly employing unauthorized labor.”
As the Trump administration continues its focus on illegal immigration, it becomes doubly important for roofing contractors to be aware of all laws and regulations regarding the employees they hire.
NRCA’s Employer Immigration Resources, which can be found at nrca.net/immigrantlabor, provides incredibly useful information for those navigating hiring immigrant labor.
The site includes a handbook for employers and guides to help contractors prepare for inspections and visits by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, as well as a wallet card employees can use if confronted by ICE agents. NRCA members also can take advantage of 30 free minutes of legal advice from Cotney’s firm, Adams & Reese LLP, Tampa, Fla.
In addition, NRCA continues to provide guidance regarding immigrant labor through its Power Hour recordings, its digital newsletter NRCA E-News and other educational offerings.
I encourage you to take advantage of the information available to you. Being confronted by a government official without knowing the law and your options can feel intimidating and confusing. But NRCA’s resources can make any potential ICE situation seem less overwhelming.
AMBIKA PUNIANI REID
Editor of Professional Roofing
Vice president of communications
NRCA
