Immigration irregularities cause 47 layoffs at Market Basket
The Department of Homeland Security found that dozens of Market Basket workers did not have valid employment documents.
Cybah, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The supermarket chain Market Basket has suspended 47 employees at its New Bedford, Massachusetts, store following a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) audit that found multiple irregularities in work authorization documentation.
Audit reveals irregular hiring
The DHS revealed that a total of 167 employees at the chain lacked legal authorization to work in the U.S., triggering administrative processes and internal reviews. The audit was part of an investigation initiated in 2023 under Section I-9, which regulates the verification of employment immigration status.
Market Basket's response
Market Basket acknowledged that some documents were not updated correctly, leading to the temporary suspension of employees. The company indicated that the workers may be rehired if they present the proper documentation certifying their eligibility to work in the country.
Organizations such as the Workers' Community Center expressed concern about the social and economic impact of the measure. Its director, Adrián Ventura, noted that many employees were not informed about the document renewal requirements, and that the sanctions affect working and migrant families.
This action against Market Basket is part of a nationwide crackdown on labor immigration enforcement, driven by Donald Trump to prevent the hiring of people without verified legal status. The government has issued statements indicating that further audits could occur in other sectors and companies.
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