On November 4th, 2021, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker signed a bill into law that will allow undocumented immigrants in the state to obtain driver’s licenses. This landmark legislation makes Massachusetts the latest state to extend driving privileges to individuals regardless of their immigration status.
The bill, known as H.4356, was introduced by State Senator Brendan Crighton and State Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier. It passed overwhelmingly in the state legislature, with both chambers voting in favor of the measure.
Proponents of the bill argue that allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses will make roads safer for all residents. Currently, undocumented immigrants in Massachusetts are not allowed to drive legally, leading many to operate vehicles without proper training or insurance. By providing them with the opportunity to obtain a driver’s license, advocates believe that these individuals will be more likely to receive formal driving instruction and purchase insurance, ultimately reducing the number of uninsured motorists on the road.
In a statement following the bill signing, Governor Baker emphasized the importance of road safety and ensuring that all drivers are properly licensed. “This legislation will help make our roads safer by ensuring that all drivers, regardless of their immigration status, are properly trained and insured,” said Governor Baker.
Under the new law, undocumented immigrants will be eligible to apply for a standard driver’s license if they can provide proof of identity, Massachusetts residency, and liability insurance. The licenses will be marked with a notation indicating that the individual is not a U.S. citizen, but will otherwise be identical to licenses issued to legal residents.
Opponents of the bill have raised concerns about potential security risks and fraud associated with granting driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. They argue that providing identification to individuals without legal status could compromise national security and make it easier for individuals to engage in criminal activity.
However, supporters of the legislation have dismissed these concerns, pointing out that many other states have already implemented similar programs without any significant security issues. In fact, studies have shown that states with driver’s license programs for undocumented immigrants have seen a decrease in hit-and-run accidents and an increase in the number of insured drivers on the road.
The new law is expected to have a significant impact on the estimated 185,000 undocumented immigrants currently living in Massachusetts. For many of these individuals, the ability to legally drive will open up new opportunities for employment, education, and accessing essential services.
“I’ve been living in fear of being pulled over while driving without a license,” said Maria Rodriguez, an undocumented immigrant living in Boston. “Now, I can finally have peace of mind knowing that I can drive legally and safely.”
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is currently working on implementing the new driver’s license program for undocumented immigrants. Details on the application process, fees, and required documentation are expected to be released in the coming months.
As the state prepares to roll out this groundbreaking initiative, advocates are hopeful that other states will follow suit in recognizing the importance of providing driver’s licenses to all residents, regardless of their immigration status. The move towards inclusivity and equity on the roads is a positive step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of all Massachusetts residents.
