MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A food service business in Lakeville is the first Minnesota company to sign on to a federal program designed to ensure that its workers are legal.

The program is called IMAGE, or ICE Mutual Agreement between Government and Employers. It's a voluntary program that allows businesses to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Mike Feinberg, the special agent in charge of ICE in Minnesota, says companies who join the program can reduce illegal workers and the use of false documents.

He says businesses who join will also improve their reputations.

Ryt-way Industries in Lakeville joined the program this month.

Ryt-way has more than 1,000 employees.

(Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved)

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