The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued a memo regarding its enforcement of employment and labor standards. The memo indicates that the government’s focus should be to ensure workplaces comply with immigration and labor laws. However, it emphasizes that there may be better ways to do this then mass worksite sweeps. In fact, the policy directs the immediate end of mass worksite enforcement operations. These operations often result in the arrest of hundreds of workers. They can even serve as a tool of retaliation in workplace cooperation. Instead, the policy suggests a more focused approach to investigating worksite compliance. This approach would lead to more targeted enforcement based on legitimate complaints, as opposed to random fishing expeditions for unauthorized employment. This focused approach is good news for employers and employees alike. We understand immigration and labor laws can be complex. Thus, we will continue to help our clients maintain compliance with these laws.
