Illinois Governor Signs Bill Allowing Undocumented Immigrants to Obtain Driver’s Licenses
In a groundbreaking move, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill into law that will allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. The bill, known as the Illinois Safe Roads Act, passed the state legislature last month and has been met with both praise and criticism from residents and lawmakers alike.
The new law will make Illinois the 13th state to allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. Supporters of the bill argue that it will make the roads safer by ensuring that all drivers are properly trained and insured. They also believe that it will help undocumented immigrants integrate into society and contribute to the economy.
Governor Pritzker, who has been a vocal supporter of the bill since it was introduced, hailed the new law as a step forward for both road safety and immigrant rights. “Every Illinoisan, regardless of their immigration status, should have the opportunity to get to work, care for their families, and live their lives without fear,” he said in a statement.
However, not everyone is in favor of the new law. Some opponents argue that it rewards illegal behavior and could encourage more undocumented immigrants to come to Illinois. They also express concerns about potential fraud and abuse of the system.
Under the new law, undocumented immigrants will be required to provide proof of identity, residency, and insurance in order to obtain a temporary visitor’s driver’s license. These licenses will be valid for three years and cannot be used as a form of federal identification.
Supporters of the bill point out that the new law will not only benefit undocumented immigrants but also the state as a whole. By allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses, they argue, the state will see an increase in revenue from fees and insurance premiums.
In addition to the economic benefits, the new law will also address the issue of road safety. Studies have shown that allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses can lead to a decrease in hit-and-run accidents and uninsured motorists.
The Illinois Safe Roads Act is set to go into effect on January 1, 2020. Undocumented immigrants who wish to apply for a temporary visitor’s driver’s license will be able to do so at select Secretary of State facilities throughout the state.
Overall, the passage of the Illinois Safe Roads Act represents a major victory for immigrant rights advocates and a significant step forward in the ongoing debate over immigration policy in the United States. Only time will tell how the new law will impact the state of Illinois and its residents.
