More Employers Face Immigration Audits – WSJ.com
More Employers Face Immigration Audits – WSJ.com.
About 1,000 U.S. employers will be audited for immigration violations as the federal government escalates pressure on business owners to resist hiring illegal immigrants.
Authorities said Thursday it was the largest employer crackdown ever; the government in July announced audits of 654 businesses.
Targeted firms will get a notice that federal agents intend to audit compliance with immigration laws and check the eligibility of workers. Violations could lead to fines, as well as civil or criminal charges.
None of the 1,000 companies was named. But each firm is “associated with critical infrastructure,” officials said. That’s the label the government applies to companies involving, for example, utilities, transportation or communications. Critical infrastructure entities are also seen as national security assets or potential targets for terrorists.
The Obama administration wants to use tough enforcement to win support in a broader campaign for a congressional overhaul of the U.S. immigration system next year. The White House would like to create a way for millions of illegal immigrants in the U.S. to win legal residency and citizenship.