Rep. Melanie Miller Votes in Support of the E-Verify Workforce Integrity Act

COLUMBUS – State Representative Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) today voted in support of the E-Verify Workforce Integrity Act, or H.B. 246, legislation to ensure all workers hired in Ohio for covered construction projects are legally authorized to work in the United States.

“Ohio jobs should go to workers who play by the rules,” said Miller. “This legislation promotes a level playing field and ensures a fair hiring process for both workers and employers.”

Under the legislation, all contractors, subcontractors, and labor brokers working on public works projects for state agencies and political subdivisions must use the federal E-Verify program to confirm employee eligibility. This requirement also applies to private-sector contractors in nonresidential construction.

The bill also empowers the Attorney General to investigate suspected violations, issue notices of violation, and pursue enforcement through the courts if necessary. 

Penalties include fines, disqualification from state contracts for up to two years, and license suspension or revocation, especially when unauthorized workers are knowingly employed. 

House Bill 246 now advances to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.