E-Verify rule delayed again by Homeland Security Deptartment

The Homeland Security Department notified lawmakers Wednesday that it once again will delay a rule requiring federal contractors to verify the legal status of their workers, triggering an immediate backlash from some Republicans.

The rule, which was supposed to take effect June 30, is not scheduled to begin until Sept. 8. The rule would require contractors to use the E-Verify system, an online tool that allows employers to verify a worker's Social Security number and immigration status.

House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee ranking member Harold Rogers, R-Ky., said the delay was inexcusable. "The administration needs to stop playing political games and rectify this situation immediately so that taxpayer money isn't funding illegitimate employment and hard-working citizens aren't pushed to the back of the employment line," Rogers said.

House Judiciary ranking member Lamar Smith added: "American workers should not have to compete with illegal immigrants for employment, especially taxpayer-funded federal contract jobs."

In announcing the latest delay, the department did not provide a reason, saying only that an official notice will be published in the Federal Register this month.