Prohibit employing aliens not lawfully authorized to accept employment

This bill prohibits employers in Montana from knowingly hiring, recruiting, referring, or employing individuals who are not lawfully authorized to work in the United States. It directly affects businesses and individuals who employ workers, as well as state licensing authorities that regulate professional and business licenses. The law imposes a fine of up to $300 for violations and mandates automatic suspension or revocation of professional licenses for first, second, and subsequent offenses, with suspension periods ranging from one year to 20 years. Additionally, the bill allows harmed individuals to sue for damages of $500 or $2,000 per day of unauthorized work depending on whether the violation was negligent or knowing, and it grants peace officers authority to investigate potential violations.