Congressman Mackenzie, Chairman Jordan Applaud Judiciary Committee Passage of E-Verify Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On Thursday, Jan. 8th, Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, saw his legislation to strengthen E-Verify requirements for federal contractors pass through the House Judiciary Committee.

The Day 1, Dollar 1 E-Verify Act would require all federal contractors to use the E-Verify system, regardless of contract size or duration. Under current law, contractors can avoid E-Verify requirements if a federal contract totals less than $150,000 or lasts fewer than 120 days. Congressman Mackenzie's bill closes those loopholes to ensure taxpayer-funded contracts are only fulfilled by legal workers.

"American workers deserve commonsense protections against illegal competition," said Congressman Mackenzie. "Wages, opportunities, and the rule of law are all undermined when a contractor employs illegal workers - and it certainly should not be happening with a taxpayer-funded contract. That's why I am building on my past work in this space by advancing legislation that ensures American tax dollars only go to eligible workers."

"Federal contractors should never use American tax dollars to pay the salary of illegal aliens," ​​said House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jordan. "Rep. Mackenzie's bill requiring these employers to use E-Verify to check the work eligibility of their employees is common sense. This bill will help reduce the job magnet for illegal aliens and protect American jobs."

Congressman Mackenzie has long advocated for expanding the use of E-Verify. As a Pennsylvania state representative, he authored and passed a bipartisan law requiring the use of E-Verify in the construction industry. Last year, in his role as Chairman of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee, Congressman Mackenzie held a hearing on strengthening E-Verify.

The bill now awaits further consideration by the full House.