(KNSI) — The Minnesota House has passed the Driver’s Licenses for All bill, allowing anyone, regardless of immigration status, to earn a driver’s license.
In a statement to KNSI, the bill’s author, Representative Aisha Gomez, says allowing all Minnesotans to earn a driver’s license is the right thing to do. “For public safety, for our shared prosperity, and to honor the inherent humanity and dignity of all community members. It should have been done years ago but it’s always the right time to do the right thing.”
House Speaker Melissa Hortman agreed, saying, “Ensuring everyone has access to driver’s licenses will improve public safety for everyone, grow the state economy, and treat immigrant communities with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
Stearns County Sheriff Steve Soyka agrees from a public safety standpoint because migrant families come to work on farms in the area for the summer, and the person behind the wheel should understand and know the rules of the road.
Opponents of the measure say it could lead to voter fraud and ineligible recipients receiving government assistance.
It now heads to the Senate.
___
Copyright 2023 Leighton Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be broadcast, published, redistributed, or rewritten, in any way without consent.
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!