Runner proposes a new anti-illegal immigrant bill

Bill targets state agencies that use companies to hire undocumented workers

A new bill announced Wednesday by Assemblywoman Sharon Runner, R-Lancaster, will prohibit state agencies from contracting with companies who hire illegal immigrants.

"The illegal immigration problem in California is out of control," Runner said. "As members of government, we must ensure our house is in order before we consider calling on the rest of the state to take measures to verify they are not providing work to illegal immigrants."

Apple Valley Town Councilman Scott Nassif said that a similar policy was enforced in Apple Valley about a year ago. Every contract that the town gives out prohibits the hiring of undocumented workers. If they are caught using undocumented workers, they would have to forfeit the contract, Nassif said. There is also a similar policy attached to business licenses in Apple Valley, in which someone could lose their business license if they are reported using undocumented workers.

Victorville and Hesperia do not have ordinances that prohibit the use of undocumented workers.

Victorville Councilman Bob Hunter said that they are looking at the idea. He said he has talked with the city attorney to try to put together a similar policy.

Caltrans would be one example of a state agency that contracts out to other companies if they need help with construction on certain transportation projects.

Assembly Bill 1615 would require companies who contract with the state to verify their employees through a basic pilot program that is monitored by the Department of Homeland Security, the Social Security Administration and the employer.

If a employer continues to employ someone that has been verified as not eligible, they are subject to civil fines between $500 and $1,000 for each failure to notify the Department of Homeland Security.

In the coming months the bill will be referred to the appropriate policy committees for an initial hearing.