Immigration (Work Authorization)

This bill (HD 3853) authorizes Massachusetts to create a pilot program under the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. It establishes a "State Immigration Processing & Waiver Office" to develop a database for legal visitors and residents, and explore Employer Sponsorship Agreements (ESAs) where Massachusetts employers can sponsor credentialed non-citizen workers. The pilot also aims to coordinate with federal authorities on potentially allowing state law enforcement to screen certain employable non-citizens, with possible federal reimbursement. The bill directly affects Massachusetts employers needing qualified workers and non-citizen residents seeking clearer immigration pathways within the state.

SD 713, titled "An Act encouraging employer integrity in hiring," prohibits Massachusetts employers from knowingly falsifying employment or citizenship documents for non-citizen workers. It directly affects employers who hire immigrants, imposing penalties for violations: first offenses carry up to $1,000 fines or 30 days in jail, while repeat offenses increase fines ($1,000-$2,500 for second offense, $2,500-$5,000 for third) and jail terms (up to 3 months or 6 months minimum). The bill escalates punishments based on prior convictions for similar offenses in Massachusetts or elsewhere. This law aims to deter document fraud in hiring practices without specifying broader immigration policy changes.

By Representatives Sousa of Framingham and Cruz of Salem, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2176) of Priscila S. Sousa and Manny Cruz relative to employer disclosure of immigration status to conceal violation of state wage, benefit, or tax laws. Labor and Workforce Development.