Maryland Governor Larry Hogan recently signed a bill into law that will allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses in the state. The legislation, known as the “Safe and Accessible Driver Act,” has been hailed by advocates as a major victory for immigrant rights and road safety.
Under the new law, undocumented immigrants who can prove their identity and residency in Maryland will be eligible to apply for a driver’s license. The license will not be considered a federal identification and cannot be used for voting purposes or to access federal benefits. However, it will allow immigrants to drive legally in the state, ensuring that they can get to work, school, and other important destinations without fear of being pulled over and detained for driving without a license.
Advocates for the law argue that it will make Maryland’s roads safer by ensuring that all drivers on the road have passed a driving test and have insurance. They also note that allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses will reduce the number of uninsured drivers on the road, ultimately benefiting all Maryland residents.
Opponents of the law, however, have raised concerns about potential security risks and the impact on federal immigration enforcement. Some argue that issuing driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants could make it easier for them to evade detection and remain in the country illegally. Others worry that the law will encourage more undocumented immigrants to come to Maryland in search of a driver’s license.
Governor Hogan, a Republican, ultimately signed the bill into law after it passed the Democratic-controlled General Assembly with bipartisan support. In a statement, he emphasized the importance of road safety and ensuring that all Maryland residents have access to essential services.
“I believe that all Maryland residents should have the opportunity to obtain a driver’s license and drive legally in our state,” Hogan said. “This legislation will improve road safety and ensure that all drivers on our roads are properly licensed and insured.”
The law will go into effect on January 1, 2023, giving undocumented immigrants time to gather the necessary documentation and apply for a driver’s license. Advocacy groups are already working to educate immigrants about the new law and help them navigate the application process.
One such group is CASA, a Maryland-based organization that advocates for immigrant rights and has been a vocal supporter of the legislation. In a statement, CASA Executive Director Gustavo Torres praised the law as a step towards greater equality and inclusion for immigrants in Maryland.
“We are thrilled that Governor Hogan has signed this important legislation into law,” Torres said. “This law will make our roads safer and ensure that all Maryland residents, regardless of immigration status, can access essential services and opportunities.”
The Maryland Department of Transportation is also gearing up for the implementation of the new law. In a statement, MDOT Secretary Greg Slater emphasized the importance of working with immigrant communities to ensure a smooth transition to the new licensing system.
“We are committed to ensuring that all Maryland residents can access a driver’s license and drive safely on our roads,” Slater said. “We will be working closely with immigrant communities to provide guidance and support as they navigate the application process.”
Overall, the passage of the “Safe and Accessible Driver Act” represents a major victory for immigrant rights in Maryland. With the support of Governor Hogan and bipartisan lawmakers, undocumented immigrants in the state will soon be able to obtain driver’s licenses and drive legally on Maryland roads. This landmark legislation will not only improve road safety but also promote greater inclusion and equality for all Maryland residents, regardless of their immigration status.
