E-Verify & I-9 News

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that companies are becoming more concerned about their I-9 and document review processes in light of increasing audits by ICE. As a result, many businesses are contacting their immigration counsel for advice or to request an external audit. Many immigration law firms will conduct I-9 audits and assist in developing proper employer-wide I-9 protocols going forward, including the use of electronic I-9 software.

Before contacting counsel, employers should review their own internal procedures and decide if a formal review is necessary. Tracker Corp maintains a library of useful I-9 and E-Verify resources to get you started, including PowerPoint training slides, best practices, and a sample compliance program.  These items can be downloaded or requested here.

In today’s Federal Register, the USCIS accounced that they are extending the comment period for the E-Verify Non-User Survey and Employee Survey in Arizona, which was originally published on June 2, 2009. Apparently, they are extending the deadline since they did not receive any replies. Comments are now due on September 23, 2009.

If you’re interested in commenting on E-Verify, you can send send your comments to: USCIS, Chief, Regulatory Products Division, Clearance Office, 111 Massachusetts Avenue, Washington, DC 20529-2210. Comments may also be submitted to DHS via facsimile to 202-272-8352 or via e-mail at rfs.regs@dhs.gov, and to the OMB USCIS Desk Officer via facsimile at 202-395-5806 or via e-mail at oira_submission@omb.eop.gov. When submitting comments by e-mail please make sure to add OMB Control Number 1615-0108.