Illinois governor signs measure allowing noncitizens to get standard driver’s licenses
Key Republican questioned Democrats meddling in immigration issues the federal government controls.
Of more than 150 bills signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker Friday, one allows undocumented immigrants in Illinois to get a standard driver’s license like citizens can get.
Pritzker’s office announced a bulk bill signing of more than 150 bills. Separately, he announced he signed House Bill 3882 which allows noncitizens to get a standard driver’s license.
“This legislation is a significant step in eliminating the barriers to opportunity that many undocumented immigrants face,” Pritzker said. “We’re ensuring every eligible individual can obtain a driver’s license, making our roads safer, decreasing stigma, and creating more equitable systems for all.”
Illinois has had a Temporary Visitor Driver's License program for a decade that allowed noncitizens that meet certain criteria to obtain a license that noted "NOT VALID FOR IDENTIFICATION" across the top. Signed Friday, the new license will say "FEDERAL LIMITS APPLY."
The measure that begins Jan. 1 was an initiative of Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias.
“Illinois embraces immigrants who are in search of the American dream,” Giannoulias said during a news conference last week. “And I see people across the state who represent the very best of America.”
https://justthenews.com/nation/states/center-square/pritzker-signs-measure-allowing-noncitizens-get-standard-illinois