Dozens rally at DMV for licenses for undocumented immigrants

Supporters claim the "Green Light New York" bill would make roads safer and boost the economy.

News 12 Staff

Jun 7, 2019, 11:25 PM

Updated 2,009 days ago

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Dozens of people rallied Friday in front of the Department of Motor Vehicles' Hauppauge location in support of the so-called "Green Light New York" bill, which would allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses.
Supporters claim the legislation would make New York's roads safer and boost the economy.
Under the proposal, undocumented immigrants would be able to use a foreign ID to apply for a driver's license. The license would not be Real ID compliant and would read "not for federal purposes."
The controversial bill cleared a state Assembly committee this week and is expected to pass the Democrat-controlled Assembly if it's brought to a floor vote. But its passage is more uncertain in the state Senate, where it faces strong opposition from Republicans like state Sen. Phil Boyle of Bay Shore.
And Jay Jacobs, the chairman of both the state and Nassau County Democratic Party, says that while he backs the measure, he warns Long Island senators they could end up losing their seat if they OK the bill. He says the issue is too unpopular on Long Island.
Earlier this week, state Senate Minority Leader John Flanagan railed against the proposed law.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo says he would sign the bill if it reaches his desk.
New York's legislative session ends June 19.