Calif. Moves To Give Licenses To Immigrant Drivers
SACRAMENTO (AP) — California is moving to give driver's licenses to young immigrants who are in the country illegally but would no longer face deportation under a recently announced policy change by the Obama administration.
AB2189 would require the Department of Motor Vehicles to accept as proof of legal residence whatever document the federal government provides to participants in its deferred action program. It passed 25-7 Wednesday and returns to the Assembly.
The bill by Democratic Assemblyman Gil Cedillo of Los Angeles drew support from three conservative Republicans.
Sen. Anthony Cannella, a Republican from Ceres, reasoned that it is better to have the young immigrants licensed and insured because they are driving, anyway.
He said, "It is not in our best interest to continue to treat them as if they are here illegally."
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