E-verify compliance deadline passes

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WALA) - Alabama businesses had until April 1 to comply with a requirement to verify the eligibility of their workers under the states controversial immigration law.

All Alabama businesses, regardless of their size, must enroll in the federal E-Verify program by April 1 to be in compliance with House Bill 56.

Alabama Department of Homeland Security Director Spencer Collier released a statement urging businesses to use resources provided by the U.S. Government and the Alabama DHS.

Collier said, “We want the business community to be aware that it is our top priority to assist them in becoming compliant."

The requirement will only apply to new hires.

Collier called the issue important to the business community at large.

"It is absolutely imperative that all businesses complete this process and legally comply," he said.

Click here for more information from the state of Alabama or here for more information from the DHS.