Dauphin News

Senator Chris Gebhard recently announced that Pennsylvania’s Department of General Services (DGS) has imposed monetary fines on four construction companies for violating the state’s E-Verify law. The contractors found in violation include J&T Paving, KC Construction, Kobalt Construction, and Don E. Bower.

In response to the enforcement actions, Gebhard emphasized the importance of the E-Verify system in ensuring that new hires are eligible to work in the United States. He highlighted the significance of Pennsylvania's E-Verify law in protecting local jobs and promoting fair competition in the construction industry.

Gebhard, who co-sponsored Act 141 to strengthen the E-Verify law, explained the necessity of addressing weaknesses in the legislation to prevent the hiring of unauthorized workers. The updated law, which went into effect in January 2023, increased penalties for contractors who fail to comply with the E-Verify requirement, with fines now ranging up to $25,000.

Reflecting on the impact of the revised law, Gebhard stated, "Long gone are the days of construction contractors not taking the E-Verify law seriously. With higher penalties, contractors know that they have more to lose now than ever before if they break the law."

Under the strengthened legislation, the Department of General Services has conducted nearly 90 audits within a year to ensure compliance with E-Verify requirements. Information on audits and a complaint form can be accessed on the DGS website for transparency and accountability purposes.

The efforts to enforce E-Verify laws in Pennsylvania aim to uphold the integrity of the construction industry and protect the interests of authorized workers.