1. What are some of the challenges that undocumented immigrants face when working as subway or streetcar operators?

1. Limited job opportunities: Many cities require subway and streetcar operators to have a valid driver’s license and legal work authorization, making it difficult for undocumented immigrants to get hired for these positions.

2. Legal penalties: Operating a subway or streetcar without proper documentation can lead to serious legal consequences, including deportation.

3. Fear of discovery: Undocumented immigrants may fear being discovered by authorities while operating public transportation, which can add stress and anxiety to their work experience.

4. Discrimination: Undocumented immigrants may face discrimination or mistreatment from coworkers or passengers due to their immigration status.

5. Language barriers: Many subway or streetcar systems operate in English and require operators to communicate with passengers on a regular basis. Undocumented immigrants who are not fluent in English may struggle with this aspect of the job.

6. Lack of access to training and advancement opportunities: Undocumented workers may not have access to formal training programs or advancement opportunities within the transportation industry, limiting their career prospects as operators.

7. Financial constraints: Many undocumented immigrants face financial challenges such as difficulty obtaining loans or not having access to banking services, which can affect their ability to purchase necessary equipment or make repairs when needed.

8. Safety concerns: Operating a subway or streetcar carries inherent risks and accidents can occur on the job. Without proper work authorization, undocumented workers may be hesitant to report safety concerns or seek medical attention if injured on the job.

9. Inability to unionize: Some undocumented workers may be unable to join labor unions, limiting their ability to advocate for better working conditions and wages.

10. Constant threat of deportation: The constant fear of being deported can cause extreme stress and anxiety for undocumented immigrant workers, making it difficult for them to perform at their best on the job.

2. How do they navigate the process of obtaining required licenses and permits for this job without proper documentation?

Obtaining licenses and permits for jobs typically involves filling out applications, providing supporting documents, paying fees, and undergoing inspections. Without proper documentation, this process may be more challenging but not impossible.

1. Determine the required licenses and permits: First, the individual should research and determine which licenses and permits are necessary for the specific job they want to do. This information can be found through government websites or by contacting relevant agencies.

2. Seek legal advice: It may be helpful to consult with an immigration lawyer who can provide guidance on navigating the licensing process without proper documentation. They can also advise on any potential risks or consequences.

3. Use alternative forms of identification: While a valid ID is typically required for license applications, some states allow individuals to use alternative forms of identification such as birth certificates or affidavits from family members or community leaders.

4. Provide proof of skills and experience: Some licenses and permits may require proof of skills or training in addition to identification documents. Individuals without proper documentation can provide evidence of their education or work experience through transcripts, letters from previous employers, or certification documents.

5. Seek employment with an established company: In some cases, working for an established company that already has the necessary licenses and permits can make it easier to obtain the required credentials as they may sponsor their employees’ applications.

6 . Ask for help from community organizations: There are many community organizations that offer assistance to immigrants in finding resources and navigating legal processes like obtaining licenses and permits. They may be able to provide guidance, legal referrals, or even advocacy support during the application process.

7 . Follow all procedures diligently: To increase chances of approval, it is crucial to follow all procedures diligently and submit complete applications with accurate information on time.

It is important to note that this process may vary depending on the state or country where one wants to work and the type of job being pursued. Therefore, it is essential to research and seek guidance from relevant authorities or legal professionals to ensure compliance with all regulations and requirements.

3. What kind of risks do they face by working in a highly regulated and monitored industry as an undocumented immigrant?

As an undocumented immigrant, working in a highly regulated and monitored industry poses numerous risks for individuals. These risks include:

1. Legal consequences: Working in a highly regulated industry as an undocumented immigrant means that the individual is likely to be violating immigration laws by being employed illegally. This puts them at risk of being detained, deported, and facing criminal charges.

2. Exploitation and abuse: Undocumented immigrants may be more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by employers due to their fear of reporting workplace violations or seeking help from authorities.

3. Lack of labor protections: As they do not have legal status, undocumented immigrants are often excluded from certain labor protections such as workplace safety regulations, minimum wage laws, overtime pay, and worker’s compensation.

4. Limited job options: Without valid work authorization, undocumented immigrants are limited in the types of jobs they can access. This restricts their ability to seek employment in safer and less physically demanding industries.

5. Difficulty accessing healthcare: Undocumented immigrants may face challenges in accessing healthcare services due to their lack of legal status. This can pose significant risks if they work in industries with potential health hazards.

6. Blackmail and mistreatment: In some cases, employers may use an individual’s undocumented status as leverage to blackmail or mistreat them, making it difficult for the individual to speak out against any workplace violations.

7. Fear of deportation: Undocumented workers may live under constant fear of being detected by authorities while on the job, leading to stress and anxiety which can impact their physical and mental health.

8. Limited opportunities for career advancement: Due to their unauthorized status, undocumented immigrants may face barriers to career advancement such as obtaining professional licenses or pursuing higher education opportunities.

4. Are there any specific training or requirements that undocumented immigrants must meet to work in this field, compared to citizens or legal residents?

Undocumented immigrants face unique challenges in the labor market, including restrictions on employment opportunities and limited access to formal training programs. In some cases, undocumented immigrants may face additional barriers to working in certain fields compared to citizens or legal residents.

1. Legal Status: Undocumented immigrants are not authorized to work in the United States, which limits their employment options and can make it more difficult for them to obtain certain job opportunities. Additionally, many employers require employees to have a valid Social Security number, which undocumented immigrants do not possess.

2. Education and Training Requirements: Undocumented immigrants may also face difficulties obtaining the education and training necessary for certain jobs. Some states have laws that prohibit undocumented students from attending public universities, making it difficult for them to receive specialized training or degrees required for certain careers. They may also be ineligible for federal financial aid or scholarships, further limiting their educational opportunities.

3. Occupational Licensing: Many professions require licenses or certification from state licensing boards before individuals can practice in the field. These licensing requirements often involve proof of legal status and can be a significant barrier for undocumented immigrants seeking employment in these fields.

4. Language Barriers: Undocumented immigrants who are not proficient in English may face additional challenges in securing and maintaining jobs that require strong communication skills.

5. Discrimination: As with other areas of employment, undocumented immigrants may also face discrimination based on their legal status when seeking work.

6. Other Restrictions: Depending on their immigration status, undocumented immigrants may also be limited by federal laws that restrict certain types of work or industries they can participate in.

Overall, there are no specific training or requirements that apply only to undocumented immigrants seeking employment compared to citizens or legal residents. However, their lack of legal status often creates significant barriers that limit their ability to access quality education and training programs and obtain high-paying jobs in certain fields.

5. How do employers handle hiring and onboarding processes for undocumented Subway and Streetcar Operators?

Employers typically follow the same hiring and onboarding processes for all potential employees, regardless of their immigration status. This may involve advertising job openings, conducting interviews, and checking references. However, when it comes to verifying an individual’s eligibility to work in the United States, employers are legally required to follow specific guidelines.

Firstly, all potential employees must complete the Form I-9, which requires them to provide proof of their identity and employment authorization. Typically, this involves providing a valid government-issued photo identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) and either a Social Security card or other acceptable work authorization document.

If an individual does not have a Social Security number or is unable to provide one due to their immigration status, they can still be hired if they have a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit. Employers can use this document to verify an employee’s eligibility to work in the U.S.

However, it is important for employers to note that they are not allowed to discriminate against job candidates based on their citizenship or immigration status. This means that employers cannot refuse to hire someone simply because they are undocumented. Additionally, employers must treat all employees equally regardless of their immigration status once they are hired.

As for the onboarding process, employers will typically provide new Subway and Streetcar Operators with training and resources needed for their job duties. This may include driving safety procedures, customer service training, and learning how to operate the vehicles properly.

In summary, while there may be some additional steps involved in verifying eligibility to work for undocumented Subway and Streetcar Operators due to their immigration status, employers generally follow the same hiring and onboarding processes for all potential employees.

6. Do DACA recipients have more opportunities in this line of work compared to those without any form of protection?

It is difficult to say definitively if DACA recipients have more opportunities in this line of work compared to those without any form of protection. It may depend on a variety of factors, including the individual’s skills, education, and experience. Some employers may be more willing to hire DACA recipients due to their vulnerable immigration status and desire to support them, but others may not want to deal with the potential complications that could arise from employing someone with uncertain legal status. Ultimately, each situation may vary and it is important for individuals to advocate for themselves and seek out opportunities regardless of their status.

7. Are there any restrictions on advancement within the company for undocumented workers in this position?

It is unlikely that an undocumented worker would have the opportunity for advancement within the company, as many companies have strict policies in place that require legal work authorization for anyone hired. Additionally, without proper legal documentation, an undocumented worker may face limitations in their ability to participate in job training and other career development opportunities offered by the company. Ultimately, it is up to the individual employer and their policies regarding employment of undocumented workers.

8. Is discrimination against undocumented employees a common problem in this industry?

There is no definitive answer to this question as experiences may vary depending on the specific workplace and location. However, it is worth noting that undocumented immigrants are often vulnerable to exploitation and discrimination in many industries due to their lack of legal protections and fear of reporting mistreatment. This vulnerability may also extend to the hospitality industry, where they may face discrimination in terms of their wages, working conditions, and opportunities for career advancement. Unfortunately, due to the underground nature of their work, undocumented employees may also find it difficult to seek redress for any discriminatory treatment they experience.

9. How does the lack of legal status affect job security for these workers?

The lack of legal status greatly affects job security for undocumented workers in several ways:

1. Fear of Deportation: Undocumented workers are constantly living in fear of being caught and deported by immigration authorities. This fear can lead them to accept exploitative working conditions, such as low pay, long hours, and unsafe working conditions, in order to avoid drawing attention to themselves.

2. Vulnerability to Exploitation: Employers may take advantage of the undocumented workers’ fear of deportation by not following labor laws or paying fair wages. These workers have little recourse for reporting workplace violations and abuse because they risk being reported to immigration authorities if they speak up.

3. Limited Job Options: Due to their lack of legal status, many undocumented workers are limited to jobs that do not require documentation. This means they are often stuck in low-paying, temporary or under-the-table jobs with no benefits or job security.

4. Difficulty Getting Hired: Undocumented workers face barriers when trying to secure employment due to not having a valid work permit or social security number. They may also be passed over for higher-paying jobs because employers know that these workers cannot legally demand higher wages or better working conditions.

5. Inability to Change Jobs: Without legal status, it is nearly impossible for undocumented workers to change jobs if they are unhappy with their current employer or seek better opportunities. This makes them extremely reliant on their current employer and further exacerbates their vulnerability to exploitation.

Overall, the lack of legal status greatly limits the job options and security for undocumented workers, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by employers.

10. Are there any support systems or resources available for undocumented Subway and Streetcar Operators, both at their workplace and from outside organizations?

Some organizations that may offer support or resources for undocumented Subway and Streetcar Operators include:
– UndocuBlack Network: This organization focuses on supporting undocumented Black immigrants, including providing legal resources and advocacy.
– Undocumented Worker Organizing Committee: This group advocates for the rights of undocumented workers and assists with workplace issues, including labor rights.
– Union representation: If the Subway or Streetcar Operator is part of a labor union, they may have resources available for undocumented workers.
– Immigrant rights organizations: There are several organizations that provide advocacy and legal support for undocumented immigrants, such as United We Dream and National Immigration Law Center.
– Social services agencies: Depending on the city or state where the Subway or Streetcar Operator works, there may be social services agencies that provide assistance to undocumented individuals. These could include counseling services, financial assistance, and resources for navigating immigration status.
– City government resources: Some cities have created programs specifically aimed at supporting undocumented immigrants, which could potentially provide job training or other support services.
Overall, it’s important for subway and streetcar operators to research what resources are available in their specific area and to connect with others in similar situations for support.

11. How do they deal with potential language barriers while working in such a fast-paced environment?

There is no one set way that all fast-paced work environments deal with language barriers, as each company and team may have their own unique approach. However, here are a few common strategies that may be used:

1. Hiring multilingual employees: Many companies actively seek out bilingual or multilingual employees to join their teams, as this can greatly help with communication and coordinating tasks in a fast-paced environment.

2. Providing language training: Companies may also offer language training programs for their employees to improve their communication skills and bridge any language gaps.

3. Using translation tools: In some situations, companies may provide access to translation software or tools that can help employees communicate more effectively across different languages.

4. Encouraging clear communication: In a fast-paced work environment, it’s important for everyone to be as concise and clear in their communications as possible. This helps to minimize confusion and misunderstandings caused by language barriers.

5. Creating a supportive culture: Some companies focus on creating a supportive and inclusive culture where employees feel comfortable asking for clarification or help when needed. This can help reduce the impact of language barriers on teamwork and productivity.

6. Assigning mentors or buddies: Pairing up employees who speak different languages can also be helpful in navigating potential language barriers. These mentors or buddies can support each other in understanding tasks and communicating effectively within the team.

Ultimately, effective communication is key in addressing potential language barriers in a fast-paced work environment. Companies should strive to foster an open and collaborative culture where all employees feel valued and supported regardless of their native language.

12. What are some ways that companies can better support their undocumented employees in this field?

1. Providing employment assistance: Companies can offer practical assistance for undocumented employees such as connecting them with resources to help them apply for work permits or providing legal support for navigating the immigration process.

2. Offering language support: Many undocumented workers may not speak English fluently, and this can be a barrier in the tech industry where most communication is in English. Companies can provide language learning opportunities or offer translation services to help their undocumented employees better communicate and integrate into their teams.

3. Creating a supportive workplace culture: It is important for companies to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture that values diversity and promotes inclusivity. This can help undocumented workers feel more accepted and valued within the company.

4. Providing access to financial resources: Undocumented workers may have limited access to financial resources due to their immigration status, making it difficult for them to afford education or training programs. Companies can provide financial assistance through scholarships, grants, or tuition reimbursement programs specifically designed for undocumented employees.

5. Offering mentorship and networking opportunities: Mentorship programs can be beneficial for undocumented workers, as they often lack professional networks needed to advance in their careers. By connecting them with experienced professionals within the company, companies can provide valuable guidance and support for career growth.

6. Partnering with organizations that support immigrant communities: Companies can partner with nonprofit organizations that support immigrant communities to provide training, job placement services, and other resources for undocumented employees.

7. Creating inclusive hiring practices: HR departments should ensure that their hiring practices do not discriminate against candidates based on their immigration status. They should also make sure job postings are open to all qualified applicants regardless of their citizenship status.

8. Advocating for policy changes: Companies can use their influence and resources to advocate for policy changes that benefit undocumented workers in the tech industry. This could include supporting legislation that offers a path to citizenship or increases access to educational opportunities.

9. Educating employees about immigrant issues: Providing educational resources and training for employees can help create a better understanding of the challenges faced by undocumented workers. This can help promote a more inclusive and understanding workplace culture.

10. Providing legal protections: Companies can implement policies that protect the rights of their undocumented employees, such as ensuring fair pay and addressing discrimination or harassment based on immigration status.

11. Offering flexible work arrangements: Undocumented workers may face challenges in obtaining certain documentation or may have to attend to immigration-related matters. Providing flexible work arrangements such as remote work or flexible schedules can help accommodate their needs.

12. Celebrating cultural diversity: Companies can celebrate the diverse backgrounds and cultures of their employees, including those who are undocumented. This can foster a sense of belonging and make undocumented employees feel appreciated and valued within the company.

13. Can you share any success stories of undocumented immigrants who have worked their way up to higher positions within the transit system?

Some possible success stories include:

– An undocumented immigrant who started off as a maintenance worker and worked their way up to become a lead supervisor in charge of overseeing a team and managing projects.
– A transit operator who came to the U.S. as an undocumented child, but obtained legal status through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. They have now been promoted to train new operators and received accolades for their excellent customer service skills.
– An undocumented immigrant who worked as a mechanic for years, eventually gaining enough experience and knowledge to open their own repair shop specializing in transit vehicles.
– A former janitor, who migrated from Mexico without proper documentation, is now the chief engineer of an urban rail system after obtaining citizenship through naturalization.

14. What steps can be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of these workers amidst the current political climate regarding immigration?

1. Train all employees on inclusivity and anti-discrimination policies: Employers should conduct regular training sessions to educate all their employees, including managers and supervisors, on creating an inclusive work environment that is free from discrimination based on race, ethnicity or nationality.

2. Provide resources for legal assistance: Employers can offer resources such as legal clinics or provide information about non-profit organizations that offer legal assistance to workers who may be facing immigration issues.

3. Establish a supportive workplace culture: Employers should foster a workplace culture of support and understanding for immigrant workers. This can include creating a diversity and inclusion committee, offering language classes, or highlighting the contributions of immigrant workers in company publications.

4. Keep track of changing laws and policies: Stay informed about any changes in immigration laws and regulations by regularly following updates from government agencies or consulting with immigration lawyers.

5. Offer flexible work arrangements: Allow workers to have flexibility in their work schedules if they need to attend appointments with immigration lawyers or appear at immigration court hearings.

6. Create an emergency plan: In case of sudden ICE raids or other immigration-related emergencies, employers should have a formal plan in place to ensure the safety and well-being of their immigrant workers.

7. Ensure confidential communication channels: Employees should be able to safely report any concerns they may have regarding safety without fear of repercussions. Employers should establish confidential communication channels for this purpose.

8. Educate employees on their rights: Employers can inform all their employees, especially immigrants, about their rights in the workplace, such as the right to refuse entry or access by ICE officials without proper documentation.

9. Implement secure documentation procedures: Make sure all employee records are kept secure and confidential to prevent any unauthorized access by government agents.

10. Partner with community organizations: Connect with local community organizations that provide support services for immigrants such as legal aid, counseling, or financial assistance if needed.

11. Offer mental health support: The current political climate may cause significant stress and anxiety for immigrant workers. Employers should provide resources for mental health support and ensure a stigma-free workplace culture around mental health.

12. Provide access to healthcare: Immigrant workers may be hesitant to seek medical care due to their legal status. Employers can offer benefits that include access to affordable healthcare, including mental health services.

13. Facilitate the citizenship process: Employers can offer assistance and resources in navigating the process of becoming a citizen, such as connecting workers with immigration lawyers or sponsoring them for work visas.

14. Foster a sense of community: Employers can create opportunities for employees to come together and build a sense of community within the workplace, such as organizing company events or creating mentorship programs. This can help create a supportive network for immigrant workers.

15. Are there any major differences between how cities with high immigrant populations vs low immigrant populations handle employment opportunities for undocumented individuals in this field?

Yes, there can be major differences between how cities with high immigrant populations vs low immigrant populations handle employment opportunities for undocumented individuals in this field. In cities with high immigrant populations, there may be more resources and support available for undocumented individuals seeking employment, such as community organizations or non-profit groups that assist with job placement and legal services.

These cities may also have policies or programs in place that protect the rights of immigrant workers, regardless of their immigration status. This can include measures like minimum wage laws, labor protections, and anti-discrimination policies aimed at ensuring fair treatment in the workplace.

On the other hand, cities with low immigrant populations may have fewer resources and support for undocumented individuals looking for work. There may also be less awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by this population, leading to a lack of protections and support systems in place.

Additionally, cities with lower immigrant populations may have stricter immigration enforcement practices and policies, which can make it more difficult for undocumented individuals to find employment without fear of deportation.

Overall, the availability of resources and supportive policies for undocumented workers can greatly impact their ability to find employment in a particular city.

16. Can being an undocumented immigrant affect one’s credibility as a subway or streetcar operator among colleagues or passengers?

It is possible that being an undocumented immigrant could affect one’s credibility as a subway or streetcar operator among colleagues and passengers, as some people may have biases or stereotypes about undocumented immigrants. However, it ultimately depends on the individual and the attitudes of those around them. Some people may not have any negative opinions about immigration status and may treat the operator with the same level of respect and trust as any other colleague or service provider. It is important to note that everyone, regardless of immigration status, has the right to fair treatment and equal opportunities in their workplace.

17. Is it possible for an employer to hire an individual without proper documentation if they possess exceptional skills or qualifications for the job?

No, it is not legally permissible for an employer to hire an individual without proper documentation. Employers are required by law to verify the eligibility of all employees to work in the United States, and hiring someone without proper documentation could violate immigration laws and lead to penalties for the employer. However, if an individual has exceptional skills or qualifications for a job, they may be able to obtain a work visa or other form of legal authorization to work in the country. It is always best for employers to follow legal hiring practices and ensure that all employees have proper documentation.

18. Are there any unique experiences or challenges faced by undocumented women working as subway or streetcar operators?

There may be unique experiences and challenges faced by undocumented women working as subway or streetcar operators, including:

1. Fear of discrimination or harassment: Undocumented women may face discrimination or harassment from co-workers, passengers, or law enforcement due to their immigration status.

2. Limited job opportunities: As undocumented immigrants are not authorized to work in the United States, they may have limited job opportunities available to them. This can make it difficult for them to find employment as a subway or streetcar operator.

3. Language barriers: Undocumented women who are not fluent in English may face additional challenges in communicating with passengers and following instructions from their superiors.

4. Lack of access to training and resources: As undocumented workers often do not have access to formal training programs or government resources, they may have difficulty acquiring the skills and knowledge needed for the job.

5. Fear of deportation: Due to their immigration status, undocumented women may live in constant fear of deportation, which can impact their mental wellbeing and ability to perform their job effectively.

6. Difficulty obtaining necessary licenses and permits: Undocumented immigrants may struggle to obtain the necessary licenses and permits required for operating a subway or streetcar due to their lack of legal status.

7. Financial struggles: Without legal work authorization, undocumented women may face financial struggles that can affect their ability to support themselves and their families.

8. Lack of employee benefits or protections: Undocumented workers are often denied employee benefits such as health insurance, sick leave, and vacation time, making it difficult for them to take care of themselves while on the job.

9. Marginalization within the workplace: Undocumented workers may experience marginalization within the workplace due to their status, which can lead to feeling isolated and excluded from decision-making processes.

10. Challenges with transportation: As public transportation is essential for commute purposes, undocumented workers who cannot obtain a driver’s license may face difficulties travelling between work and home.

19. How do these workers navigate the potential fear of deportation while performing their job duties?

Navigating the fear of deportation while performing job duties can be a daunting and stressful experience for immigrant workers. However, there are some ways that these workers may navigate this fear.

1. Knowing their rights: It is crucial for immigrant workers to know their legal rights in the workplace. This means understanding their rights regarding immigration and labor laws, including protections against discrimination and harassment.

2. Seeking legal assistance: Immigrant workers may seek help from legal organizations or immigration lawyers to understand their legal options and ensure they are following all necessary procedures to maintain their work status.

3. Documenting any incidents: It is essential for immigrants to keep records of any relevant incidents on the job, such as verbal or written threats of deportation. These documents can serve as evidence if needed in the future.

4. Establishing a support network: Building connections with other immigrant co-workers or community organizations can provide a valuable support network for dealing with potential deportation fears and seeking assistance if needed.

5. Staying informed: Immigrant workers should stay up-to-date on current immigration policies and changes in laws that could affect their employment status.

6. Educating employers: Workers can also educate their employers about immigration laws and regulations, which may help prevent any misunderstandings or incorrect assumptions about an employee’s residency status.

7. Keeping low profile: In some cases, it may be necessary for workers to avoid drawing attention to themselves by keeping a low profile at work.

8. Seeking mental health support: The fear of deportation can have significant psychological effects on individuals and could impact their job performance, so it is vital to seek out professional mental health support if needed.

Overall, navigating the fear of deportation while performing job duties requires being informed about one’s rights and options, seeking support when needed, staying updated on relevant information, and considering taking necessary precautions at work.

20. Is there any legislation or policies in place at a federal or state level that specifically addresses the employment of undocumented Subway and Streetcar Operators, and if so, how are they enforced?

At the federal level, there are no specific legislation or policies that address the employment of undocumented Subway and Streetcar Operators. However, all employers in the United States, regardless of industry or type of job, are required to verify the legal eligibility to work in the country of all their employees using Form I-9.

At the state level, some states have implemented laws that impose fines and penalties on employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers. However, these laws generally do not address specific industries or occupations.

In terms of enforcement, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has the authority to investigate potential violations of immigration laws in workplaces and to arrest individuals who are found to be working without proper authorization. In addition, employers may face consequences such as fines and other penalties if they are found to have hired unauthorized workers.

Moreover, many transit agencies may also have their own policies and processes in place for verifying employee eligibility for employment. These processes may include background checks, employment verification, and other measures to ensure compliance with immigration laws. Employees found to be working without proper documentation may face disciplinary action or termination.

Overall, while there may not be specific legislation or policies addressing the employment of undocumented Subway and Streetcar Operators at a federal or state level, existing laws and procedures still apply and can result in consequences for both employers and employees who violate them.