Employee Verification - MN

Minnesota Governor Mandates Use of E-Verify

On January 7, 2008, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty (R) issued his first executive order of the year (E.O. 08-01) instructing his Administration to establish procedures for recipients of business subsidies from the state to certify their compliance with the requirement of current U.S. immigration law. 

In addition, he also called for the Commissioner of Administration to ensure recipients of state contracts in excess of $50,000 "have implemented or are in the process of implementing the E-Verify program for all newly hired employees in the United States who will perform work on behalf of the State of Minnesota" and that vendors and subcontractors certify that they "do not knowingly employ persons in violation of the United States immigration laws."

According to the timeframe set forth in the Executive Order, these requirements are expected to become effective in early February 2008.

Given the number of states that are considering mandating employer participation in E-Verify (which is currently a voluntary program), SHRM is working with like-minded employer groups and key members in Congress in proposing an alternative to E-Verify; one that builds upon the program but also addresses the real threat of identity theft.  Once this proposal is introduced in legislative form, SHRM will be contacting members encouraging them to urge their legislators to support this effort.