When must a PPO retain the I-9 form of a former employee?

The correct choice states that a Private Patrol Operator (PPO) must retain the I-9 form of a former employee for 3 years from the hire date or 1 year after employment ends, whichever is longer. This reflects compliance with federal immigration law, specifically the Immigration Reform and Control Act.

The reasoning behind this requirement is that I-9 forms are crucial in demonstrating that an employer has verified the identity and employment eligibility of their employees. Retaining these documents for the specified periods helps ensure that employers can respond to audits or inquiries from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or other enforcement agencies.

By keeping the I-9 form for a minimum of 3 years from the date of hire or for 1 year following the termination of employment, employers protect themselves from potential penalties related to non-compliance. This policy is vital not only for legal safeguarding but also for maintaining accurate records related to employee eligibility and employment verification processes.