The federal government has delayed implementing a rule requiring employers to use a new I-9 form, the document all employers must fill out for new employees to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
The regulation requiring use of the new form was to go into effect on February 2. On January 30, however, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced it was extending the effective date until April 3, 2009. The USCIS said the delay was prompted by a variety of comments requesting the delay. It also said the delay would allow the Department of Homeland Security to further consider and review the rule.
The government will continue to accept public comment on the regulation until March 4, 2009. The new rule would narrow the list of acceptable identity documents and provide that expired documents are not considered acceptable forms of identification.
DEHS can assist employers with questions regarding I-9 forms or issues that arise in the hiring process. In addition, Tim Gebhart of the law firm is available to assess, draft or review written I-9 policies, conduct full or partial audits of existing I-9 forms, or provide on-site or off-site training for those responsible for I-9 forms.