On August 3, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed a groundbreaking new pilot program. This initiative would provide a virtual platform for Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification inspections. It’s significantly noteworthy that this measure is intended to apply to employers not currently enrolled in E-Verify.
The DHS’s announcement offers an important new procedure that will impact non-E-Verify employers. If the proposed rule is implemented, it allows for these employers to utilize the inspection platform virtually. This could potentially create a more efficient and streamlined process for verifying the employment eligibility of their workforce. This could also reduce the burden of paperwork and logistical challenges associated with current I-9 inspection practices.
The new proposed rule will be open for comments from the public for the next 60 days before its planned implementation in the Federal Register. This window allows for feedback and discussion among employers and legal professionals. With this, the DHS has a chance to refine the rule and address any potential issues that may arise from its proposed implementation.
Do note that there are very limited details released about this pilot program at this time. Hence, non-E-Verify employers and associated legal professionals are encouraged to check the official Federal Register notice and the DHS website for updates.
To further explore this topic and get more details about this new proposed rule by the DHS, you can visit here .