Hollister-based Connell Insurance is planning to host a free seminar for area businesses to examine the ins and outs of the federal government’s employment verification software E-Verify and Springfield’s recently passed ordinance requiring its use. The event is scheduled 7:30 a.m.-noon April 27 at the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center.
On Feb. 7, Springfield voters approved the mandatory use of the free E-Verify software by all businesses operating within the city limits. The initiative, meant to keep illegal immigrants from working in the city, received 51 percent of the 16,273 votes cast, according to election results posted on the Greene County clerk’s
Web site.
Randall Gammill, a partner with Connell Insurance, said the firm derives roughly 90 percent of its business from commercial lines and hosts at least three seminars per year that explore topics of interest to local business owners as a way to network and market its services.
“With the E-Verify ordinance just passing a couple of weeks ago, we decided that it was a pretty timely topic to try to educate employers on,” Gammill said.
He said the company has received a verbal commitment from an official within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to speak on E-Verify, but declined to name the person, saying a formal agreement has yet to be reached.
In addition, the seminar also will provide information for business owners on workers’ compensation, I-9 and immigration. Gammill said the seminars typically draw more than 100 attendees, and he expects the same for the April event.
Gammill said those interested in attending can register online at
ConnellInsurance.com or by calling (417) 334-2000.
The April seminar is part of the Connell Seminar Series, which has featured speakers discussing topics of interest to local business owner and administrators since its inception in 2005, Gammill said.[[In-content Ad]]