The University of California San Diego Medical Center has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $115,000 after failing to comply with proper I-9 procedures for non-citizens who are authorized to work in the United States. The Department of Justice (DOJ) filed suit against UCSD Medical for an alleged pattern or practice of requesting excessive I-9 documentation. Under the terms of the settlement, UCSD Medical has also agreed to conduct supplemental training for its human resources personnel and work with the DOJ to ensure compliance with proper Form I-9 processes across all University of California campuses, medical centers and facilities. As ICE continues to step up its enforcement activities, many employers are scrambling to follow the confusing rules and procedures, oftentimes resulting in accidental or intentional discrimination during the hiring process as well as “document abuse.” Employers can ensure that I-9s are completed properly without engaging in unlawful discrimination by: engaging experienced immigration counsel to evaluate your current processes and procedures; developing policies documentation and training; and using a smart Electronic I-9 and E-Verify program.
