Immigration enforcement touches not only federal law but there are strict state specific requirements that protect both employers and employees. Under the California Immigrant Worker Protection Act and related state laws, businesses must carefully follow limits on what information they can provide to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and how they respond to an unannounced inspection. Failing to comply can expose employers to significant penalties and liability.
An ICE Preparedness Policy is essential for your business because it gives your company a clear, step-by-step plan for responding if ICE agents arrive at your workplace. Additionally, it helps your supervisors, managers and employees to understand their roles, who is authorized to communicate with ICE, and what documentation—such as subpoenas or warrants—must be reviewed before any action is taken. This not only ensures compliance with California law, but also protects employee rights, reduces disruption, and helps avoid costly mistakes made under pressure.
For California employers, the stakes are particularly high. State law prohibits business owners to voluntary consent to ICE access without a judicial warrant and requires specific notices to employees if records are inspected. A California compliant policy makes sure your company stays on the right side of both federal and state rules, while creating a culture of preparedness and trust.
By adopting an ICE Preparedness Policy, California businesses demonstrate responsibility, compliance, and care for their workforce—building confidence that if ICE does show up, the Company will respond lawfully, consistently, and calmly. For assistance in creating a compliant ICE Preparedness Policy, contact the Employer Lawyers at Chauvel & Glatt.
