Vermont E-Verify No Statewide Mandate

Vermont has not enacted legislation requiring private employers, state agencies, or public contractors to use the federal E-Verify electronic employment verification system. Employers in Vermont must complete federal Form I-9 employment eligibility verification under 8 U.S.C. 1324a, but participation in E-Verify remains voluntary except where required by specific federal contract obligations under Executive Order 12989. The Vermont Department of Labor enforces state wage and employment laws without mandating E-Verify. Municipalities are not authorized to impose local E-Verify ordinances on private employers, as employment verification is governed by federal law and state statute. Employers who voluntarily enroll in E-Verify must follow federal program rules and anti-discrimination protections.

Federal Form I-9 violations carry fines from $281 to $2,789 per paperwork violation and higher penalties for knowingly hiring unauthorized workers under federal law.