Senate To Act On Bill Next Month To Prohibit Drivers Licenses For Illegal Aliens

In an effort to stop an ill-advised order from Governor Spitzer that could jeopardize the safety and security of New Yorkers, New York State Senator Thomas P. Morahan today announced that the New York State Senate will act on legislation next month to prohibit the state from issuing drivers licenses to illegal aliens. The legislation would require a social security number or proof of authorized presence in the United States to obtain a New York State drivers license.

"I am disturbed by the ramifications of this plan," said Senator Morahan, who also serves as Senate Majority Liaison to the Executive Branch. "A drivers license is not an entitlement and is the most important document issued in the establishment of one’s identity. The integrity of this document must be maintained to the highest standards. Relaxing the requirements endangers all New Yorkers and all Americans, making it easier for terrorists and illegal immigrants to obtain identification and access to services that, without a license, would be off limits. I urge Assembly Speaker Silver to bring the Assembly back into session and pass this bill."

The legislation the Senate will take up next month is similar to bills introduced in the Senate that would require applicants for a drivers license or non-driver identification card, to submit satisfactory proof to the Department of Motor Vehicles that the applicant's presence in the United States is authorized under federal law (S.74); and legislation (S.6250), passed by the Senate in June, that would require the Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to obtain proof from any applicant for a drivers license or nondriver identification card who cannot provide a social security number, that they are ineligible for a social security number. The Assembly did not act on this bill.

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