Tennessee Code 50-1-703 requires Memphis employers with 35 or more employees to use the federal E-Verify system to confirm work authorization for all new hires. Smaller employers may instead retain copies of identity documents.
Tennessee's Lawful Employment Act (TCA 50-1-701 et seq.) mandates E-Verify enrollment for employers with 35+ employees, including private companies, contractors, and subcontractors. Smaller employers (under 35) may opt to retain copies of work authorization documents (ID and I-9 supporting docs) for three years. The Tennessee Department of Labor enforces, with penalties up to $500/day per violation and license suspension for repeat offenders. Memphis cannot create sanctuary policies overriding state mandate (TCA 7-68-101). Construction industry sees heaviest enforcement.
First violation triggers warning; subsequent violations bring $500/day fines and possible business-license suspension up to one year per TCA 50-1-712.
See how Memphis's e-verify mandates rules stack up against other locations.
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