December 17, 2007 11:34 AM CST

Regulatory Alert: New I-9 Form & Procedure

By Jessica Johnson Bennett

As many of you are probably aware the Federal Government issued a new procedure and form I-9 for the purposes of hiring new employees. On November 26th, 2007 the Department of Homeland Security published the final rule in the Federal register providing information on the new I-9 Form and the New Handbook for Employers to use for Employer Sanctions purposes.

The use of the new I-9 Form will be mandatory 30 days after publication, meaning DECEMBER 26th 2007, employers will be responsible for abiding by the new requirements or face potential penalties. ALL employers must transition to a newly revised Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) by Dec. 26, 2007. It is important to note that the form must be completed for all employees hired in the United States (citizen and non-citizen) and kept either for three years after the date of hire or for one year after employment is terminated, whichever is later. The form must be available for inspection by authorized U.S. government officials (e.g., ICE, Department of Labor). The new form, instructions for employers and the new list of acceptable documents for proof of identity are available online here.

Also important to note, five documents have been removed from the list of acceptable documents to verify identity and employment eligibility, therefore, be sure to read the list of acceptable documents on page four of the I-9 form. Additional information can also be found at the Department of Homeland Security's website at:
www.uscis.gov/files/pressrelease/FormI9Update110707.pdf

Also, as always please feel free to contact me with any questions/concerns you may have.

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About the Author

Jessica Johnson Bennett was the Director of Government Affairs for MCAA. She has an extensive background in public affairs and government relations. Her expertise in strategic planning, PAC management and operations help on key policy issues.