Montana businesses that intentionally hire illegal immigrants could face serious consequences under a new proposal in the state legislature.

House Bill 536 seeks to revoke licenses from businesses that violate the law, provide funding to the Montana attorney general and county attorneys to enforce it, and allow individuals affected by the hiring of illegal immigrants to take legal action.

Rep. Lukas Schubert, who supports the bill, explained in a phone interview that the proposed funding will help ensure proper enforcement. He argued that the current penalties aren’t enough, stating that businesses knowingly hiring illegal immigrants can harm American workers.

“Employers who intentionally hire illegal immigrants, knowing they shouldn’t be in the country, need to face strict penalties,” Schubert said. “We must hold them accountable.”

Schubert also believes that similar laws should be adopted in other states to prepare for potential changes in federal immigration policy.

“Four years from now, we could have a Democrat president reversing border policies and returning to more relaxed enforcement,” he warned.

The bill still needs approval before reaching Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte, who has emphasized the importance of immigration issues in his administration. A spokesperson for the governor’s office stated that Gianforte supports a secure southern border and will carefully review any bills related to immigration.

Montana’s efforts to combat illegal immigration include sending National Guard troops to Texas and banning sanctuary cities statewide.