(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana will soon begin fining businesses that knowingly hire workers in the country without legal permission, under a new state law, according to WISH-TV.
Attorney General Todd Rokita says enforcement of Senate Enrolled Act 76 is set to begin July 1, marking the first time Indiana will impose financial penalties on employers for such hiring practices.
Rokita says the law is aimed at cracking down on what he describes as underground economies and labor trafficking, particularly in industries like construction.
Supporters, including representatives from the construction trades, say some companies are being undercut by competitors using low-wage labor without benefits or protections.
The law also requires schools, government agencies and law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
Critics have raised concerns about potential profiling, while state officials say enforcement will be based on tips and referrals as investigations begin.