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Florida Mandates E-Verify for Most Private Employers

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. andates-e-verify-for-most-private-employers.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 5:36 GMT by CBS News
      Locales: Florida, UNITED STATES

Tallahassee, FL - February 8th, 2026 - The Florida House of Representatives passed House Bill 599 (HB 599) on Thursday, February 5th, 2026, mandating that most private employers in the state utilize the E-Verify system for new hires. The move, championed by Republican lawmakers, aims to curb unauthorized employment within Florida, but has ignited a fierce debate over potential economic consequences and allegations of discrimination.

The bill's passage, with a vote of 73-44, represents a significant step towards stricter immigration enforcement within the state. E-Verify is an online system operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that allows businesses to verify the employment eligibility of their employees by cross-referencing their information with Social Security and immigration databases. Proponents argue it's a critical tool to protect jobs for legal residents and citizens, and to ensure compliance with federal immigration laws.

Representative Tommy Gregory (R-Sarasota), the bill's sponsor, emphasized this point during the House debate. "Florida's economic prosperity relies on a legal and regulated workforce," Gregory stated. "HB 599 isn't about targeting any specific group; it's about upholding the law and ensuring fairness for those who follow the rules. We have a responsibility to safeguard employment opportunities for our citizens and those authorized to work in the United States."

However, the bill's opponents paint a far more concerning picture. Representative Ashley Gantt (D-Miami) led the charge against the legislation, warning of a looming labor crisis. "Florida is already struggling with persistent labor shortages across numerous sectors - construction, hospitality, agriculture, and healthcare are all feeling the strain," Gantt explained. "Adding the complexity and potential for error inherent in E-Verify will only worsen the situation, potentially driving businesses to relocate or scale back operations."

The concerns extend beyond simple labor availability. Critics argue the E-Verify system isn't foolproof, and can lead to errors resulting in wrongful rejections of qualified workers, disproportionately impacting minority and immigrant communities. Legal challenges based on discriminatory impact are anticipated should the bill become law. Several advocacy groups, including Florida Immigrant Coalition and UnidosUS, have already signaled their intention to explore legal options. They point to studies suggesting E-Verify can lead to increased instances of "quiet discrimination" where employers avoid hiring individuals perceived to be potentially problematic, even if they are legally authorized to work.

The bill isn't a blanket mandate. It includes limited exemptions, primarily for smaller businesses with fewer than 25 employees and for workers in the agricultural sector, potentially easing the burden on some industries. However, these exemptions are seen by some as insufficient to mitigate the overall impact. Agricultural businesses, which rely heavily on seasonal labor, are particularly vocal about the challenges E-Verify could present, citing potential disruptions to harvesting and production.

The Senate is currently considering a companion bill, SB 604, which contains slight variations from the House version. A conference committee will likely be formed to reconcile these differences before a final version is sent to Governor Ron DeSantis. DeSantis is widely expected to sign the legislation into law, continuing his administration's focus on border security and immigration enforcement.

The passage of HB 599 puts Florida in line with a growing number of states adopting mandatory E-Verify laws. Arizona, Georgia, and Alabama are among those that have implemented similar measures, often resulting in legal battles and economic adjustments. The Florida Chamber of Commerce, initially neutral, expressed cautious concern, urging lawmakers to consider a phased implementation to minimize disruption. They have also called for increased funding to support businesses in navigating the E-Verify system.

The long-term consequences of this legislation remain to be seen. While proponents believe it will strengthen Florida's economy and protect legal workers, opponents fear it will exacerbate labor shortages, increase discrimination, and stifle economic growth. The debate surrounding HB 599 underscores the complex intersection of immigration, economic policy, and civil rights in the 21st century.