What is considered Worksite Enforcement Priority 1?

Worksite Enforcement Priority 1 refers to employers whose employees access sensitive information. This designation is important because organizations that handle sensitive data, such as personal information, financial records, or other confidential material, pose significant risks if they employ individuals who are not legally authorized to work in the United States. The focus on these employers stems from the potential for national security threats, data breaches, and exploitation of vulnerabilities within critical infrastructure sectors.

Organizations involved with sensitive information require a thorough vetting process for their employees to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. The significance of this priority is underscored by the fact that unauthorized workers may compromise the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data, which can lead to adverse consequences for both the organization and the public.

In contrast, employers of low-risk workers or those whose workers are not in sensitive positions do not pose the same immediate concerns regarding security and data protection. Similarly, employers in industries with high employee turnover may have operational challenges, but their risk profile does not necessarily reach the critical nature associated with access to sensitive information. Thus, the identification of Worksite Enforcement Priority 1 centers on the safeguarding of sensitive data and is reflective of broader security priorities within workforce enforcement practices.