Norris Votes against Driver’s Licenses for Illegal Immigrants WATCH THE VIDEO:
A member of the Assembly Transportation Committee, Assemblyman Mike Norris (R,C,I,Ref-Lockport) today voted against advancing legislation, known as the “Green Light Bill,” that would allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses (A.3675). In January, Norris polled constituents on the issue and 95 percent opposed the measure.
“There is no question our country has been made better by the countless contributions of immigrants; however, this bill would reward those who came to our country unlawfully, and will create real security concerns both within New York State and throughout our nation,” said Norris. “Having a driver’s license is a privilege that should be afforded only to those who are here legally.”
Because the “Green Light Bill” makes it easier for anyone to obtain government-issued identification without verification of their identity, Norris said the bill would only enhance fraud and infringe on law enforcement. Pointing to recently passed legislation that would open up identification requirements for voting, he said this bill could also pose administrative problems and undermine election security.
Norris’ concerns are shared by those who would be tasked with enforcing the changes if enacted – the state’s county clerks. As recently reported, the county clerks in Erie and Niagara counties have expressed deep concerns with the measure and have expressed they would not comply with the measure if enacted into law. Though the bill was advanced by the Assembly Transportation Committee today (Norris voted against the bill), Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said he plans to bring the bill to a full vote next week.