Assemblyman Felix W. Ortiz (D-51st) was joined today in Albany by Assemblyman Jimmy Meng, members of the New York Immigration Coalition and the Tepeyac Association of New York, as well as a resident affected by the state’s biased laws regarding the issuance of a driver’s license. Ortiz, who has authored several pieces of legislation (A.24, A.611 and A.612), which would provide over one million hardworking immigrants throughout New York with the opportunity to obtain a valid and secure state driver’s license, spoke passionately about the issue.

"I find it unacceptable that these contributing members of society, who work hard to support their families and try to secure a better life, are subjected to being treated as second class members of our society. In a state, such as New York, which was founded on the sweat of generations of immigrants this cannot and should not be tolerated," stated Ortiz.

With one-third of the New York’s population being immigrants or the children of immigrants the Assemblyman feels that it is our duty to lead the nation on this important issue.

He is appalled by the actions of the Department of Motor Vehicles, which has began suspending licenses throughout the state and denying certain individuals the right to renew their license. The Assemblyman’s legislation would allow these individuals to obtain a valid license while providing the state with greatly increased security.

"My legislation would provide for those in need, improve the safety of every New Yorker and create new revenue of nearly $100 million for the state of New York," continued Ortiz.