In fact, in a study conducted by the California Department of Vehicle (DMV) early this year, it was found out that most of the unlicensed drivers that possibly cause fatal car accidents and hit-and-run incidents in the state are mostly illegal immigrants.
Therefore, in an aim to primarily reduce such road misfortune, the state lawmakers approved a bill that would give illegal immigrants a privilege to drive.
If the bill is signed into law, California will be the newest and largest state to grant undocumented immigrants the right to obtain a driver’s license. So far, the bill’s passage would make the Golden state the 11th state granting illegal immigrants the ability to apply for driver’s license.
According to media sources, the State Assembly passed the bill 55-19 last Thursday night and was subsequently followed by a 28-8 vote from the Senate. Also, the Governor Jerry Brown is a supporter of the said bill.
In fact, in his statement following the Assembly’s approval of the bill, Gov. Brown said, “This bill will enable millions of people to get to work safely and legally.” He also hopes that the bill would serve as a wake-up call for Washington, to enlighten the said state about the need for an immigration reform that has been long past due.
On the contrary, opponents of the said bill claimed that it would only bring ambiguity to both employers and landlords when it comes to complying with existing immigration laws. According to the Associated Press, the driver’s licenses will include a special note that identifies its holder as ineligible for employment and voting, and that the card is for driving purposes only.
Apparently, although the bill seems quite good, something in it isn’t going right or definitely confusing, particularly when the Gov. Brown claimed that it is for the purpose of bringing the immigrants to work safely and legally. How could the lawmakers explain that special remark on the licenses, which bars its holder from using the same for employment purposes? They should probably clarify things first before arriving into a solid arrangement like a law, suggested by a Los Angeles auto accident attorney.
