New York to issue driver’s licenses for undocumented immigrants
In a groundbreaking move, New York has become the latest state to grant driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the bill into law on Monday, making the state the 13th in the country to adopt such a measure.
The law, known as the Driver’s License Access and Privacy Act, will allow immigrants who are in the country illegally to apply for a driver’s license. Supporters of the bill argue that it will make the roads safer by ensuring that all drivers on the road are trained, tested, and insured. They also say it will help immigrants access essential services and jobs.
“We are a nation of immigrants, and we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to have a driver’s license,” said Governor Cuomo in a statement. “This law will make our roads safer and our communities stronger.”
Opponents of the bill, however, have raised concerns about the potential security risks of granting driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. They argue that it could make it easier for criminals and terrorists to evade detection and carry out illegal activities.
The bill includes several safeguards to address these concerns. Applicants will have to provide documentation demonstrating their identity and residency in New York, and the state will not share their information with federal immigration authorities. The licenses issued to undocumented immigrants will also be marked with a note indicating that they are not valid for federal purposes, such as boarding a plane.
In addition to the security measures, the bill includes provisions to protect the privacy of applicants. The Department of Motor Vehicles will not retain copies of the documents used to verify an applicant’s identity, and the state will not use the information to enforce immigration laws.
New York joins a growing number of states that have passed similar legislation in recent years. California, Nevada, and Washington are among the states that allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. Advocates for immigrants’ rights say these laws are critical for ensuring that immigrants can live and work without fear of deportation.
“We are pleased to see New York take this important step towards recognizing the contributions of undocumented immigrants,” said Juan Carlos San Juan, director of the New York Immigration Coalition. “This law will provide much-needed relief to thousands of immigrants who live and work in the state.”
The new law is expected to benefit an estimated 265,000 undocumented immigrants in New York who are currently unable to obtain a driver’s license. It is set to go into effect in December 2019, giving immigrants time to prepare their documentation and apply for their driver’s license.
For many immigrants, the ability to drive legally will be life-changing. Without a driver’s license, they are often unable to access essential services such as healthcare and education, and they risk being stopped by law enforcement and detained for driving without a license.
“I have been living in fear every time I get behind the wheel,” said Maria, an undocumented immigrant from Mexico who has been living in New York for 10 years. “With this new law, I will be able to drive without worrying about being arrested and separated from my family.”
Despite the controversy surrounding the new law, supporters and opponents alike agree that it represents a significant step forward for immigrant rights in New York. As the state prepares to implement the law, advocates are calling for outreach and education efforts to ensure that all eligible immigrants are aware of their rights and how to apply for a driver’s license.
“We are committed to working with immigrant communities to ensure that they have the information and resources they need to take advantage of this new law,” said San Juan. “We will continue fighting for the rights of all immigrants, regardless of their legal status.”
