Which agency can impose civil money penalties for I-9 violations?

The Department of Labor has the authority to impose civil money penalties for I-9 violations. The I-9 form is a requirement for employers to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment in the United States. When employers fail to comply with the requirements outlined for the I-9 process, the Department of Labor can impose penalties to enforce compliance and ensure that employers are adhering to labor laws.

The focus of the Department of Labor’s enforcement includes examining workplace compliance with immigration laws and ensuring that employers are taking the necessary steps to verify the work eligibility of their employees. These penalties can serve as a deterrent against the hiring of individuals who are unauthorized to work in the U.S., further promoting lawful employment practices.

The other agencies listed do not have the authority to enforce I-9 regulations specifically. For example, the Social Security Administration primarily manages social security benefits and does not handle employment eligibility verification. The Environmental Protection Agency focuses on environmental protection laws, and the Federal Communications Commission regulates interstate communications but does not deal with employment verification issues. Each of these agencies has distinct responsibilities that do not intersect with I-9 compliance.