Illegal immigration bill to be taken up in RI

February 5, 2011
PROVIDENCE, R.I.

A bill requiring state departments to check the legal working status of employees comes up for a debate at the Statehouse this week.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Peter Palumbo, essentially reinstates former Gov. Don Carcieri's (kuh-CHEER'-ees) 2008 executive order that cracked down on illegal immigration. New Gov. Lincoln Chafee (CHAY'fee) rescinded the order one day after being sworn in.

The legislation mandates that state departments and vendors that do business with the state use the E-Verify database to ensure employees are eligible to work in the United States.

The bill directs the State Police to enter into an agreement with the federal government so troopers can assist with illegal immigration enforcement.

The bill is now scheduled for a hearing before the House Labor Committee.

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