Connecticut Passes Bill Allowing Undocumented Immigrants to Obtain Driver’s Licenses
In a landmark decision, the state of Connecticut has passed a bill that will allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. The move comes as a significant victory for immigrant rights activists who have long been fighting for the rights of undocumented individuals to be able to drive legally in the state.
The bill, known as SB 881, was passed by the Connecticut General Assembly with bipartisan support and was signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont. Under the new law, undocumented immigrants will be able to apply for a driver’s license without having to provide proof of legal residency in the United States.
Proponents of the bill argue that allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses will make Connecticut roads safer by ensuring that all drivers on the road have passed a driving test and are insured. They also argue that it will help undocumented individuals to access vital services such as healthcare and education, as well as employment opportunities.
Opponents of the bill, on the other hand, argue that it will encourage illegal immigration and undermine the rule of law. They also express concerns about potential identity fraud and security risks associated with issuing driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants.
Despite these concerns, the majority of Connecticut residents seem to support the new law. A recent poll conducted by the Connecticut Mirror found that 68% of state residents were in favor of allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses.
Advocates for undocumented immigrants have hailed the passing of the bill as a major victory for immigrant rights in Connecticut. They argue that it will help to integrate undocumented individuals into society and allow them to live more fully and freely in the state.
One such advocate is Maria Sanchez, a community organizer with Make the Road Connecticut, a grassroots organization that fights for the rights of undocumented immigrants. “This is a huge step forward for our community,” Sanchez said. “Access to a driver’s license is a basic necessity for everyday life, and now undocumented immigrants in Connecticut will be able to drive legally and safely.”
The new law will go into effect on January 1, 2022, and the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles has already begun preparing for the influx of new driver’s license applications. Undocumented immigrants will be required to pass a written and practical driving test, as well as provide proof of identification and residency in the state.
In order to apply for a driver’s license, undocumented immigrants will also need to show that they have lived in Connecticut for a certain period of time, pay the required fees, and provide proof of insurance. The licenses issued to undocumented immigrants will be marked with a special designation to indicate that the holder is not a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
The passage of SB 881 makes Connecticut the latest of a growing number of states to allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. Currently, 15 other states and the District of Columbia have similar laws in place, with more states considering legislation to grant driver’s licenses to undocumented individuals.
In a statement following the signing of the bill, Governor Lamont praised the bipartisan efforts that led to its passage. “This is a common-sense measure that will benefit all residents of Connecticut,” Lamont said. “Allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses will make our roads safer, strengthen our economy, and promote inclusivity and diversity in our state.”
The passing of the bill marks a significant milestone for immigrant rights in Connecticut and is seen as a step towards greater acceptance and integration of undocumented individuals in the state. With the new law set to take effect in just a few months, undocumented immigrants in Connecticut will soon be able to drive legally and participate more fully in their communities.
