House Bill 3623 passed through the Senate General Government Committee on Thursday. It would increase the penalty for a contractor or subcontractor to knowingly submit an affidavit stating they are in compliance with the state’s electronic verification laws. That is how the bill would ensure that state tax dollars are not going to employ undocumented immigrants.
Senator Darrell Weaver is carrying HB 3623 in the Senate.
“Oklahoma taxpayers want to know exactly where their hard-earned dollars are spent and especially want to ensure they’re used judiciously. This bill ensures that state funds are not being used for the employment of individuals who are not legally authorized to work in our state, while also holding contractors and subcontractors accountable,” Weaver said. “Ultimately, we want to put protections in place, but we also want to make sure our citizens are a priority and that there are numerous career opportunities available to them.”
If a contractor submits a false affidavit, they could face a $5,000 administrative penalty for the first offense and $2,000 for each subsequent offense. The contract with the state maybe terminated as well.
The legislation is set to be heard on the full Senate floor.
