DOS & DOJ Partner to Combat Immigration Fraud and Workplace Discrimination

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) recently announced that they have formalized a partnership to facilitate information sharing between the agencies. This interagency cooperation is being undertaken with the stated goal of protecting U.S. workers and combating fraud related to the use of nonimmigrant workers.

Increased Information Sharing

During the announcement of the new partnership, acting Assistant Attorney General of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Department, John M. Gore, stated, “Employers that discriminate against qualified U.S. workers by favoring foreign visa workers will be held accountable.” The agencies will share information about companies that may be engaging in fraud, unlawful discrimination, or making other misrepresentations in the use of foreign national workers. The agencies will focus on issues like discrimination based on citizenship and immigration status in hiring practices (such as completion of form I-9 and E-Verify). They will also concentrate on potential fraud or misrepresentation in regard to the hiring of nonimmigrant workers. The agencies will also provide each other with technical assistance and training to encourage complaint referrals and collaboration.

Conclusion

This new partnership is part of an increasing effort by the federal government to crack down on perceived abuses of the U.S. immigration system. Stakeholders need to be sure they are complying with all applicable laws to avoid serious consequences.

Copyright © 2017, MURTHY LAW FIRM. All Rights Reserved