In the News: Punam Rogers Quoted in Lexology PRO on E-Verify Compliance Challenges for Employers

Lexology PRO quoted Constangy partner Punam Rogers in an article examining the compliance challenges employers may face if the Mandatory E-Verify Act 2026 becomes law. The article explains that while a federal E-Verify mandate could create a national baseline for employment verification, employers may still need to navigate state-specific requirements, penalties, reporting obligations, contract conditions and industry-specific rules.

Punam noted that E-Verify obligations can depend on industry, contracts and workforce structure, with employers in staffing, hospitality and construction facing heightened risk due to decentralized or high-volume hiring. She also explained that remote work adds another layer of uncertainty, as a single remote hire in a mandatory E-Verify state may raise questions about whether an employer must enroll in the system.

The article also highlights that employers should assess their current E-Verify obligations, review Form I-9 and E-Verify procedures, audit contractor and staffing arrangements, and prepare a readiness plan in case the federal bill advances.

To read the full article on Lexology PRO's website, click here.

Punam is a nationally recognized immigration attorney who advises employers on business immigration strategy, workplace enforcement, and DEI compliance. With more than 20 years of experience—and as an immigrant herself—she brings both legal insight and personal perspective to her work. She partners with organizations from startups to global enterprises to hire and retain foreign talent, manage global mobility programs, and navigate complex visa processes, working closely with HR and legal teams to align immigration strategy with workforce goals. Punam oversees immigrant and nonimmigrant petitions and guides clients through audits and enforcement actions involving DOL, DHS, USCIS, ICE, and DOJ, while also advising on DEI initiatives that support business performance and employee engagement. She is recognized by The Best Lawyers in America®, named an Immigration Trailblazer by The National Law Journal, and listed among Boston Magazine’s Top Lawyers, and is a frequent speaker on immigration, global mobility, and workforce strategy.