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Bill

HB 903

An Act prohibiting the employment of unauthorized employees; requiring meat packing and food preparation industry employers to verify the Social Security numbers of employees; imposing duties on the Department of Labor and Industry; and imposing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Keith Harris and 4 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill requiring meat packing and food preparation employers to verify employee Social Security numbers and prohibit unauthorized workers, enforced by Department of Labor and Industry with penalties.

Referred to Labor & Industry
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 903

Legislative bill overview

HB 903 would require meat packing and food preparation industry employers in Pennsylvania to verify employee Social Security numbers and prohibit hiring of unauthorized workers. The bill assigns enforcement responsibilities to the Department of Labor and Industry and establishes penalties for non-compliance.

Why is this important

This legislation directly addresses workforce verification in two major food industries, affecting thousands of employers and workers across Pennsylvania. The bill's enforcement mechanisms could significantly impact hiring practices, workplace documentation requirements, and labor market dynamics in these sectors.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Employers argue verification systems impose administrative and financial burdens, particularly for small businesses; supporters counter that compliance prevents unfair labor competition
  • Scope limitation: The bill targets only meat packing and food preparation rather than all industries, raising questions about selective enforcement and whether other sectors should face similar requirements
  • Privacy and due process concerns: Workers' rights advocates worry about SSN verification procedures, data security, and potential discrimination against workers with legitimate documentation issues

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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