The Immigration Reform and Control Act - Assignment Example

In advising Patricia, I would like to begin by letting her know that the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 applies to all the employers in USA including herself. As an employer, she should have a sound knowledge of this act since it is part of the constitution. Hence, it is her responsibility to ensure that she does not violate the law (Coutin, 2007).

It is important for her because it will enable her to be keen on the kind of employees she recruits. Otherwise, if she fails to comply with this law, Patricia will be liable for criminal and civil penalties. However, this will be varying based on the nature of the offence and when it is done. For a first offender, there will be a monetary fine of $250-$2,000 per illegal immigrant employed. For a second offence, the fine increased to between $2,000 and $5,000 per.

However, stiffer penalties might be imposed on the third and subsequent offenders who might be eventually sentenced to up to six months in jail. I support this penalty because it is justified (Massey, 2007). In this regard, it is my considered opinion that Patricia should be keen to ensure that she does not face the same penalty. In her restaurant, she should ensure that she is privy to her workers’ immigration status to ascertain if there are illegal or legitimate.

Only legitimate ones should be hired in her restaurant. As an employer, she should make an effort to know if her employees are legally permitted to work in the country. This can be done by checking their social security numbers. Otherwise, she would have to face the wrath of this law.