Tougher penalties for hiring illegal immigrants
WASHINGTON (AP) - February 22, 2008 Attorney General Michael Mukasey and Homeland Security Secretary
Michael Chertoff announced the increase, which is the first boost
in fines in nearly a decade.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the federal agency
responsible for investigating illegal hirings, has stepped up its
enforcement of the employer sanctions law in the past year, leading
to a dozen major busts. Currently, fines range from $2,000 to
$10,000 depending on the offense. The agency says some penalties
could include at least six months in jail.