Undocumented immigrants to get green light for NY licenses on Monday

Undocumented immigrants will be able to get New York state licenses starting Monday.

News 12 Staff

Dec 13, 2019, 5:33 PM

Updated 1,602 days ago

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Undocumented immigrants will be able to get New York state licenses starting Monday.
Supporters of the measure say it will make roads much safer by cutting down on unlicensed and uninsured drivers.
According to the DMV's website, immigrants will still have to show documentation to prove their name, birthday and New York state residency.
Foreign passports will be accepted, as well as driver's licenses from other countries – including licenses that expired less than two years ago.
While some say the law will open the door for undocumented immigrants and give them the keys to lead better lives, others want to hit the brakes on the measure. They claim it's unfair to U.S. citizens and legal residents.
State Assemblyman Mike LiPetri calls the new law a slap in the face.
“Unfortunately what we're seeing is left wing extremists that want to cater to people who are here illegally rather than helping middle class Long Island people,” he told News 12.
Ana Flores, of Make the Road New York, says the Green Light Law will give the immigrant community “peace of mind” and will allow them to travel without fear. She also says it will make roads safer.
“You know the rules of the road, you are insured and then you feel more comfortable and at ease behind the wheel,” she says.
When the law goes into effect, New York will become the 13th state to provide driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants.
 


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