Maryland Governor Signs Legislation Granting Driver’s Licenses to Immigrants
In a landmark decision, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan has signed into law a bill that will allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses in the state. The legislation, which passed with overwhelming support in the Maryland General Assembly, represents a significant victory for immigrant rights advocates who have long pushed for greater access to driver’s licenses for all residents regardless of their immigration status.
The new law, known as the Maryland DREAM Act, will enable undocumented immigrants who meet certain requirements to apply for a driver’s license and identification card. Under the legislation, applicants must provide proof of identity, proof of residency in the state of Maryland, and evidence of their Maryland tax compliance. The law also requires applicants to pass a written exam, road test, and vision screening in order to obtain a driver’s license.
Governor Hogan, a Republican who has previously expressed skepticism about granting driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants, ultimately decided to support the legislation after it received widespread bipartisan support in the state legislature. In a statement released after signing the bill into law, Governor Hogan praised the legislation as a “common-sense measure” that will help ensure safer roads and communities in Maryland.
“This new law will allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses through a regulated and legal process, which will ultimately make our roads safer for all Maryland residents,” Governor Hogan said. “By requiring applicants to meet strict eligibility requirements and pass a series of tests, we are ensuring that only qualified individuals are granted access to driver’s licenses.”
Immigrant rights advocates have hailed the passage of the Maryland DREAM Act as a significant step forward in the fight for immigrant rights and social justice. They argue that access to driver’s licenses is essential for undocumented immigrants to fully participate in their communities, access basic services, and pursue economic opportunities.
“Driver’s licenses are not just about driving – they are about dignity, respect, and belonging,” said Maria Rodriguez, executive director of the immigrant rights organization CASA. “This law will make a real difference in the lives of thousands of undocumented immigrants in Maryland who have long been marginalized and excluded from society.”
The Maryland DREAM Act is expected to have far-reaching benefits for immigrant communities in the state. By allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses, the legislation will make it easier for them to travel to work, school, and medical appointments without fear of being stopped by law enforcement for driving without a license.
In addition, the new law is expected to boost public safety by ensuring that all drivers on Maryland roads are properly licensed and insured. Studies have shown that states that have implemented similar measures granting driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants have seen a decrease in hit-and-run accidents and a reduction in the number of uninsured drivers on the road.
Opponents of the legislation have raised concerns about potential fraud and identity theft, arguing that granting driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants could pose a threat to national security. However, supporters of the Maryland DREAM Act have emphasized that the law includes strict eligibility requirements and safeguards to prevent fraud and abuse.
Under the new law, undocumented immigrants who are granted driver’s licenses will be issued a unique identifier that distinguishes them from other license holders. This identifier will help law enforcement officers to easily identify individuals who are driving with a license obtained through the DREAM Act.
The Maryland DREAM Act is set to go into effect later this year, giving undocumented immigrants in the state the opportunity to apply for driver’s licenses and identification cards. Immigrant rights organizations are already working to provide information and support to individuals who may be eligible to benefit from the new law.
As Maryland joins a growing number of states that have granted driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants, advocates say they will continue to push for greater inclusivity and support for immigrant communities. They hope that the passage of the Maryland DREAM Act will serve as a model for other states and the federal government to adopt more inclusive and humane policies towards immigrants.
“We are proud to be part of a state that recognizes the contributions and humanity of all its residents, regardless of immigration status,” said Rodriguez. “We will not stop fighting until all immigrants are treated with dignity and respect under the law.”
