Texas Talks Tough on Immigration. But Lawmakers Won’t Force Most Private Companies to Check Employment Authorization.

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During a session in late April, Texas Senator Lois Kolkhorst proposed a bill in a committee meeting that would increase the difficulty for undocumented immigrants to secure jobs in the state. The legislation aimed to mandate the use of E-Verify, a federal system, by all Texas employers to verify work authorization. Despite Texas’s reputation for being tough on illegal immigration, the state currently only requires state agencies and certain businesses to utilize E-Verify.

Kolkhorst emphasized the effectiveness and affordability of E-Verify in curbing illegal immigration, stating that it ensures job opportunities go to U.S. citizens and legal residents. While the bill received support from labor representatives and passed the committee and Senate, it ultimately did not progress further, as has been the case with numerous E-Verify bills in the past.

The reluctance of Texas lawmakers to mandate E-Verify for private companies contrasts with the state’s strong stance on immigration enforcement. While some view E-Verify as a crucial step in deterring illegal immigration, concerns about its impact on the labor force and economy have hindered its broader implementation in Texas.

Various attempts have been made to expand the use of E-Verify in Texas, with limited success due to concerns about labor shortages and economic repercussions. The lack of comprehensive E-Verify legislation in Texas has drawn criticism, particularly from those advocating for stricter immigration controls. However, resistance from industries reliant on undocumented labor and fears of workforce disruptions have impeded progress on this front.

Despite the limitations and criticisms surrounding E-Verify, its proponents argue for its importance in enforcing immigration laws and addressing unauthorized employment. The debate over E-Verify in Texas reflects broader tensions between immigration policy, economic interests, and political considerations.