Two El Paso companies have recently partnered with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to enhance their hiring practices and prevent unauthorized employment. The collaboration, through ICE’s IMAGE program—ICE Mutual Agreement between Government and Employers—demonstrates a commitment to compliance with federal labor and immigration laws. The companies, Transmountain Corral LLC, operating as Golden Corral, and Access Communications Group LLC, joined more than 15 other IMAGE partners in the El Paso area. For business owners dealing with hiring and compliance issues, consulting our El Paso, TX employment lawyer can help verify adherence to all federal and state regulations while avoiding costly penalties.
The partnership involves a formal certification process. Companies must conduct a self-assessment of their hiring practices, enroll in the E-Verify employment eligibility verification program, train staff on IMAGE Best Employment Practices, and undergo Form I-9 audits. Both Transmountain Corral and ACG emphasized the value of the program in identifying vulnerabilities, verifying proper documentation, and maintaining compliance as they grow. The IMAGE program educates employers on preventing the use of fraudulent documents, verifying eligibility to work in the U.S., and reducing risks associated with unauthorized employment. ICE officials highlighted that IMAGE participation not only protects jobs for lawfully employed individuals but also strengthens national security.
Golden Corral’s general manager, Julio Chairez, stated that becoming an IMAGE partner helps the company avoid I-9 compliance issues and fines, while ACG’s president and CEO, Ana Espinoza, praised the program for its training and guidance, especially for growing businesses. IMAGE also emphasizes the importance of avoiding discrimination in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act, providing businesses with the tools to maintain fair hiring practices.
How Employment Lawyers Support Businesses And Employees
While programs like IMAGE provide valuable resources, companies and employees may still face legal challenges related to workplace compliance, labor disputes, or discrimination. Consulting our El Paso employment attorneys can help employers understand their responsibilities under federal and state law and assist employees in asserting their rights. Employment lawyers advise on proper hiring procedures, compliance audits, and protection against violations that could result in fines or litigation.
Our workplace attorneys often guide businesses through complicated labor regulations, helping to prevent issues such as wrongful termination or violations of employee rights. Our labor law lawyers can counsel on wage and hour compliance, employee classification, and adherence to federal programs like E-Verify. For employees, our employee rights lawyers provide guidance on discrimination claims, retaliation, and workplace harassment, making sure that legal protections are enforced. Similarly, our employment discrimination lawyers help address cases where hiring or promotion practices may violate civil rights laws.
For El Paso businesses aiming to implement best practices or for employees seeking to protect their rights, our team at Davie & Valdez P.C. can be invaluable. Our attorneys can provide guidance on compliance, represent clients in disputes, and develop strategies to minimize legal risks while maintaining a fair and lawful workplace. If your company is dealing with hiring compliance or if you believe your workplace rights have been violated, contact our experienced El Paso employment lawyers at Davie & Valdez P.C. to schedule a consultation and make sure you are protected under the law. We offer a 24/7 live call answering service, so you can reach out at any time of day or night. Our board-certified attorneys are ready to discuss your case and address your employment issues. Let us help you by providing exceptional legal guidance and walking you through the steps in filing a claim.