Ohio’s new E-Verify law for nonresidential construction contractors takes effect March 19, 2026. It requires all nonresidential construction contractors, subcontractors, and labor brokers working in Ohio to use the federal E-Verify system to confirm the work eligibility of employees on covered projects like commercial buildings, roads, bridges, and utilities. The law assigns enforcement to the Ohio Attorney General, with penalties ranging from fines ($250-$25,000) to disqualification from future state contracts for violations. Contractors should consult legal counsel on compliance and potential conflicts with federal E-Verify rules.

