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

COLUMBUS – State Representative Mike Dovilla (R-Berea) 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.

“Ohioans deserve a level playing field in our workforce, and House Bill 246 helps ensure that taxpayer-funded construction jobs go to those who are legally authorized to work in our country,” said Dovilla. “By requiring the use of the federal E-Verify system, this legislation strengthens the integrity of our labor market, supports law-abiding employers, and protects opportunities for Ohio workers.”

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.