Assembly OK´s Driver´s Licenses for Illegals

A hotly debated bill that would help illegal immigrants obtain drivers´ licenses has been approved by the state Assembly. It cleared the Assembly yesterday on a 44-to-30 vote following a debate in which Republicans and Democrats traded arguments about whether it would harm or help public safety.

The legislation would help undocumented immigrants obtain drivers´ licenses by allowing them to submit a federal taxpayer identification number or some other state-approved form of identification to the Department of Motor Vehicles instead of a Social Security number.

Governor Davis has vetoed two similar bills since he became governor, citing law enforcement´s concerns about the legislation. But earlier this month, he said he would sign the latest bill in a heartbeat if it reached his desk.