Mississippi Work Authorization Compliance and Fair Employment Act

This Act requires Mississippi employers to use the federal E-Verify system for all newly hired employees, consistent with federal law, and to retain required verification records. An employer that knowingly employs an unauthorized worker after receiving a final federal determination may be subject to a civil penalty, with heightened penalties for repeated violations; no penalty may be imposed until the employer receives written notice and an opportunity to contest the finding. Employers must provide employees with notice of tentative nonconfirmation results and allow the time and procedures provided under federal law to resolve errors. Nothing in this Act authorizes discrimination based on citizenship, national origin, or immigration status, and good-faith compliance with the verification process shall not be grounds for adverse action against a lawful worker.