Chipotle’s Form I-9 Compliance Nightmare
Last week, amidst rumors of a Forms I-9 audit by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), news sources are reporting that at least 50 employees were fired at several Minnesota-area Chipotle restaurants.
The following statement was released from Chipotle headquarters:
“Chipotle is fully cooperating with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials in connection with a document request they have made.”
ICE declined to give a statement regarding a possible I-9 audit of the chain.
While details of the Chipotle firings have been scarce, ALL business owners and managers need to pay attention to the hot button issue of Form I-9 compliance. Over the past 2 years, we’ve seen many high-profile retail outlets, as well as small independent businesses, slapped with large fines for Form I-9 compliance violations.
Given the political climate and the ramping up of ICE audit activity, we can expect this to be a familiar pattern into the next year. The Obama Administration is cracking down on businesses looking to “get around” immigration rules of employment eligibility verification.
Be proactive – make 2011 the year you take action to make sure your company implements a Form I-9 Compliance Plan.
ICE Investigation Sentenced Two Business Owners
Two Virginia business owners were sentenced on Tuesday to serve 18 months in prison, forfeit $1.2 million, and pay over $110,000 in fines because of their involvement in hiring and harboring illegal workers.
W. Garnett & Associates
Human Capital Management
1-303-658-9342
Employer Obligations to Temporary Workers
Since a host employer often exercises control over temps regarding daily tasks, working hours or similar conditions of employment, it can become a joint employer under various laws.
W. Garnett & Associates
Human Capital Management
1-303-658-9340
