Are state or local laws required to align with the I-9 process?

Employers are required to comply with both state and federal laws when it comes to the I-9 process. This means that while the I-9 is a federal requirement aimed at verifying the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired to work in the United States, state and local laws may impose additional regulations or requirements that employers must also follow.

For instance, some states have their own immigration laws that could include additional verification steps or penalties for non-compliance. It is essential for employers to be aware of these various legal layers to ensure they are fulfilling all obligations, thus preventing legal complications that could arise from neglecting state regulations.

This understanding helps protect employers from the risk of discrimination or violations that could occur if they solely follow federal requirements without considering relevant state laws. In contrast, the other options do not capture the full picture of compliance needed, as they either downplay the importance of state laws or condition the requirement based on the strictness of the laws.