City considers federal E-verify tool

COSTA MESA — City administrators were directed Tuesday to provide information about how the city could use E-Verify, the federal system that helps employers check the immigration status of perspective employees.

The directive, discussed in a City Council study session, is part of Costa Mesa’s ongoing efforts to tackle illegal immigration, which earlier this year declared itself a “rule of law city.”

Mayor Allan Mansoor, a staunch critic of illegal immigration, wants the city to research whether it can encourage or require businesses to use the free system when hiring.

Mansoor also wants to see whether the city can use E-Verify when hiring its own employees and when entering into agreements with contractors or sub-contractors who do business with the city.

The council briefly discussed the issue, but further discussion, including the time it will take for city staff to research it and the legality of requiring businesses in the city to use it, will take place at a future meeting.

— Mona Shadia