R.I. lawmakers to vote on bill targeting illegal immigrants

PROVIDENCE, R.I.—Private employers would be required to verify the legal status of their workers under a bill that Rhode Island lawmakers are considering to deter illegal immigration.

His bill would force private employers to verify the immigration status of prospective employees by using a federal database called E-Verify. Companies that don't enroll could face up to a $3,000 fine.

Brien says making the database mandatory will discourage employers from hiring illegal immigrants. Critics say the database is prone to errors and could disqualify legitimate job seekers.

Last month, Gov. Don Carcieri signed an executive order forcing government agencies and companies doing business with the state to use the same database.