Chafee signs order to reverse E-Verify

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Governor Lincoln Chafee has made his second executive order on his first full day on the job Wednesday.

Governor Chafee signed to rescind the controversial order by predecessor Don Carcieri requiring the state and businesses to check the immigration backgrounds of workers using the electronic program E-Verify.

In his inaugural address Tuesday afternoon, Governor Chafee said E-Verify has caused anxiety in the Latino community and has not contributed to immigration reform.

•   Gov. Chafee E-verify Executive Order

"The use of E-verify has been a divisive issue, causing unnecessary fear and anxiety in our immigrant community," said Gov. Chafee.

Supporters said E-verify helped to crackdown on illegal immigration. Those against it believe it was too harsh.

Sen. Juan Pichardo said, "Rhode Island is going back to more sensible practices or conversations about what's important to families in our state."

When the governor was asked how he would ensure workers are in the U.S. legally, Chafee said that he supports a path to citizenship.

"A federal law is really the answer and McCain/Kennedy was a good bill and there it is. That is the path to citizenship; criminals do get deported, learning English was a component," said the governor.

Rhode Island was one of 13 states to use E-verify and the only state in New England until Governor Chafee did away with the executive order.