In the wake of unsettling allegations, Missouri's Attorney General, Catherine Hanaway, has initiated an investigation into the hiring practices of Advanced Micro Targeting, Inc. (AMT), a signature-gathering firm accused of utilizing illegal immigrants in its operations in Missouri. The probe was sparked by reports claiming that AMT, an out-of-state company, might be flouting local employment laws by not disclosing their workers' ineligible status to clients, as reported by the Attorney General's Office.
AG Hanaway's office has taken decisive action, issuing a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) to AMT to produce records and information regarding its employment verification processes, and its assertions to Missouri partners and clients. "Election integrity is a core priority of this Office," Hanaway stated, emphasizing that the roles in shaping Missouri's elections should be filled by lawful residents, not "unregulated labor hired by out-of-state interests." However, it seems that AMT's potentially deceptive practices are not just a concern for the integrity of the local electoral process, as per the Attorney General's Office.
Under Missouri statutes, specifically RSMo Section 285.530, businesses are not allowed to employ individuals unauthorized to work within the state. The Transportation of an Illegal Alien, defined in RSMo Section 577.675, is a class D felony, carrying severe legal consequences. Initial findings suggest AMT may have circumvented these laws, by supplying ineligible labor to clients in Missouri, an act that could contravene the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act (MMPA), prohibiting business deception and unfair practices.
"Misleading clients about the legal eligibility of workers is not only irresponsible, but it constitutes fraud under the law," Hanaway continued, mandating transparency and lawful conduct from any party seeking to influence voters. AMT, which works as the signature-collection vendor for various Missouri petition campaigns, has been tied to People Not Politicians, a group reportedly backed by out-of-state, dark money. The Attorney General's Office solidified her stance stating, "Missouri’s laws are clear: no business may employ or transport individuals who are not authorized to work in the United States," and assured that her Office would act against any entity flouting these legislations.
The Office of the Attorney General is not taking these reports lightly and encourages anyone with knowledge of Missouri businesses employing unauthorized workers to come forward. This investigation into AMT's practices stands as a firm reminder of Missouri's commitment to uphold its labor, and election laws. The full statement from AG Hanaway, as published on the Attorney General’s Office website, provides depth into the ongoing efforts to preserve the state's workforce integrity and electoral credibility.
