DHS Alerts Employers Re Documentation Options in Wake of Flooding
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a notice on September 9, 2016, stating that the agency “is aware of the hardship and ongoing recovery efforts resulting from the recent flooding in areas such as Louisiana and Texas.” DHS noted that individuals from these affected areas who need to replace lost or damaged documents can consult Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) fact sheets for information on replacing lost or damaged documents in Louisiana (http://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1461689325185-69ea3fe5a8b4db5b89dc2fb74f6bc6d0/FS006_Replace_Lost_Docs.pdf) or Texas (http://www.fema.gov/news-release/2015/06/19/after-disaster-replacing-lost-or-damaged-documents).
DHS reminded employers that they must complete Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification and, if enrolled in E-Verify, must create a case in E-Verify for all newly hired employees, including those affected by the flooding. DHS also reminded employers that they must accept receipts from employees who choose to present them when completing the I-9.
