Assemblyman Bill Reilich (R,C,I-Greece) today called on Governor Spitzer to reverse his policy change at the DMV that will allow illegal immigrants to obtain New York state driver’s licenses.
“The governor’s reckless plan will negatively affect the integrity for our licensure system and weaken the security and safety of all New Yorkers,” said Reilich. “In addition to weakening our security capabilities in a post 9/11 world, the governor’s policy decision violates state law and the federal Real ID Act.”
New York state and federal laws require a valid Social Security number to obtain a driver’s license. New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law states that a driver’s license applicant must provide his or her Social Security number when applying for a license. Furthermore, the governor’s policy change ensures that New York state residents will need to obtain a passport to enter a federal facility or travel on an airplane in the future.
“The governor’s plan will punish hard-working taxpayers, while giving those who openly break the law the rights and privileges of law-abiding citizens,” said Reilich. “As every young adult with a license knows, driving is a privilege, not a right. Unfortunately, Governor Spitzer’s administration seems to be lacking this kind of common sense when they make policy decisions.”
“The safety of our state is not something that should fall prey to partisan politics,” added Reilich. “If the governor fails to do what is right for the people of New York, then my Assembly Minority colleagues and I will file a lawsuit seeking an immediate injunction to stop this radical policy.”