Idaho Capitol Watch

HB 704: UNAUTHORIZED WORKERS – Adds to existing law to establish certain requirements for employers to verify the lawful status of workers.

Adds new Chapter 3 to Title 44, Idaho Code, prohibiting knowing employment of unauthorized workers and aliens. Requires employers to verify legal work status within 3 days of hire and mandates E-Verify enrollment by July 1, 2026. Establishes penalties including license suspensions, contract terminations, and probation for violations.

Status

Transmitted to Senate (March 2, 2026) · Originated in the Idaho House · Introduced February 16, 2026

Sponsors

  • BUSINESS COMMITTEE

Committees

  • JRA for Printing

Bill history

  • February 16, 2026 — House: Introduced, read first time, referred to JRA for Printing
  • February 17, 2026 — House: Reported Printed and Referred to Business
  • February 24, 2026 — House: Reported out of Committee with Do Pass Recommendation, Filed for Second Reading (do_pass)
  • February 25, 2026 — House: Read second time; Filed for Third Reading
  • February 26, 2026 — House: U.C. to hold place on third reading calendar one legislative day (tabled)
  • February 27, 2026 — House: Read Third Time in Full – PASSED - 43-26-1AYES – Alfieri, Barbieri, Beiswenger, Boyle, Bruce, Burgoyne, Cayler, Cornilles, Crane(12), Crane(13), Dygert, Ehardt, Ehlers, Erickson, Hall(Stone), Harris, (passed)
  • March 2, 2026 — Senate: Received from the House passed; filed for first reading (passed)
  • March 2, 2026 — Senate: Introduced, read first time; referred to: State Affairs

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Canonical URL: https://idahocapitolwatch.com/bills/2026-HB704