HB1974

House Bill 1974, known as the 'E-Verify Requirement Act,' mandates that all Arkansas state government entities use the federal E-Verify system to confirm the employment eligibility of new employees. The bill prohibits state entities from hiring individuals who are classified as 'unauthorized aliens' under federal law. Employers are required to create E-Verify accounts, verify the status of new hires, and maintain verification records for the duration of employment or for three years, whichever is longer. The bill does not apply to employees hired before the act's effective date of January 1, 2026. The Department of Labor and Licensing is tasked with enforcement and compliance oversight, including the power to request documentation from employers. Employers found to be non-compliant are granted a 30-day window to cure such deficiencies starting July 1, 2026. The legislation explicitly states its intent to ensure that state jobs are filled by individuals present in the country lawfully.