Colorado & Eagle County Guidance for Businesses

Why This Matters

Employers in Eagle County and across Colorado must comply with federal employment eligibility requirements while also navigating a complex and often confusing immigration landscape. Understanding your responsibilities and having a plan in place helps protect your business, your employees, and your reputation within the community.

Vail Valley Partnership provides the following high-level guidance and resources to help employers stay informed and prepared:

• Download our employer checklist for additional support.
• Factsheet: Understanding ICE Raids at American Workplaces
• Know your rights (download Know Your Rights cards)
• Resource partner: Mountain Dreamers
• Resource partner: Voces Unidas
• Resource partner: Colorado Rapid Response Network
• Resource partner: Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition

Important Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Employers should consult qualified legal counsel for specific situations.

Federal Work Authorization Requirements

Form I-9 Compliance

All U.S. employers must complete Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) for every employee hired, regardless of citizenship status.

Key requirements include:

• Section 1 completed by the employee on or before their first day of work
• Section 2 completed by the employer within three business days of the employee’s start date
• Proper retention and storage of I-9 forms
• Consistent application of hiring and verification practices for all employees

Helpful Resources:

USCIS I-9 Central (instructions, forms, and updates)

ICE I-9 Compliance Fact Sheets

Colorado-Specific Considerations

E-Verify in Colorado

Colorado does not require most private employers to use E-Verify unless:

• Required by a federal contract, or
• Required by a specific legal or regulatory obligation

Even when E-Verify is not required, Form I-9 completion is mandatory for all employers.

State & Local Enforcement

Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility

Local law enforcement agencies in Colorado, including Eagle County, do not enforce immigration law

Employers should understand the difference between routine employment compliance and federal enforcement actions

Preparing Your Business: Best Practices

Internal Compliance

Employers are encouraged to:

• Conduct periodic internal I-9 audits
• Train designated staff on proper I-9 completion and retention
• Maintain written hiring and verification policies
• Store I-9s securely and separately from personnel files when possible

Response Planning

Every employer should have a basic plan in place in case of a federal inquiry or audit.

Consider preparing:

• A designated point of contact for government inquiries
• A clear protocol for reviewing warrants or subpoenas
• Guidance for supervisors on how to respond calmly and professionally
• Contact information for legal counsel
• Having a plan reduces disruption and uncertainty if an issue arises.

Supporting Your Workforce

Clear communication helps maintain trust and stability in the workplace.

Employers may consider:

• Sharing general information about employee rights and responsibilities
• Providing access to reputable “Know Your Rights” resources
• Reminding employees to be cautious of scams or misinformation related to immigration enforcement
• A well-informed workforce is less vulnerable to fear, rumors, and bad actors.

Legal & Professional Support

Immigration and employment law can be complex. Employers facing audits, enforcement actions, or compliance questions should consult experienced legal counsel.

Common areas where legal guidance may be helpful include:

• I-9 audits and corrections
• E-Verify enrollment and use
• Government notices or inspections
• Employment policy development

Vail Valley Partnership encourages members to build relationships with trusted HR and legal professionals familiar with Colorado law.

How Vail Valley Partnership Supports Employers

Vail Valley Partnership is committed to supporting a strong, compliant, and resilient business community by:

• Sharing timely information and employer resources
• Offering education and training opportunities
• Connecting businesses with trusted local and state partners
• Advocating for policies that support workforce stability and economic vitality

For questions or additional resources, please contact Vail Valley Partnership.