Illinois Governor Signs Bill Allowing Immigrant Driver’s Licenses
In a historic move, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed a bill into law that will allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. The bill, known as the Drive Illinois legislation, aims to make roads safer by ensuring that all drivers on the road are properly licensed and insured.
Under the new law, undocumented immigrants will be able to apply for a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL), which will allow them to legally drive in the state of Illinois. The TVDL will not be valid for federal identification purposes, but it will allow immigrants to drive to work, school, and other essential activities without fear of being pulled over and facing consequences for driving without a license.
Supporters of the bill argue that allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses will make roads safer for everyone. Currently, many undocumented immigrants are driving without licenses or insurance, putting themselves and others at risk. By allowing them to obtain a TVDL, they will be required to take a driving test, provide proof of insurance, and pass a background check, ensuring that they are safe and responsible drivers.
Opponents of the bill have raised concerns about security and fraud, arguing that allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses could make it easier for terrorists and criminals to operate within the state. However, supporters of the bill have dismissed these concerns, pointing out that the TVDL will clearly state that it is not valid for federal identification purposes and will be marked as such.
Governor Pritzker, who campaigned on a platform of supporting immigrant rights, praised the bill as a step towards building a more inclusive and welcoming state. “No one should live in fear of being pulled over simply because they don’t have a driver’s license,” Pritzker said in a statement. “This bill will ensure that all drivers on the road are properly licensed and insured, making our roads safer for everyone.”
The Drive Illinois legislation has been a long time coming, with advocates for immigrant rights pushing for its passage for years. The bill was initially introduced in the Illinois General Assembly in 2013, but it faced opposition from Republicans and failed to make it out of committee. However, with Democrats now in control of both the governor’s office and the state legislature, the bill was able to pass with overwhelming support.
In order to obtain a TVDL, undocumented immigrants will be required to provide proof of identity and residency in Illinois, pass a written and road test, and provide proof of insurance. The TVDL will be valid for three years and must be renewed in person at a Secretary of State facility. The cost of the TVDL will be the same as a regular driver’s license, with additional fees for the written and road tests.
The Drive Illinois legislation is set to go into effect on January 1, 2020, giving undocumented immigrants in Illinois the opportunity to obtain a driver’s license for the first time. Advocates for immigrant rights are hopeful that other states will follow Illinois’ lead and pass similar legislation, making roads safer for all drivers across the country.
Overall, the Drive Illinois legislation represents a significant step towards ensuring that all drivers on the road are properly licensed and insured, regardless of their immigration status. By allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses, Illinois is sending a clear message that everyone deserves the right to travel safely and legally on our roads.
