BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Massachusetts legislators have refiled a bill that would allow undocumented immigrants to get their driver’s license.
The bill, HD. 448/SD.273, would allow all residents across the state to get their driver’s license when they are eligible.
The law states that registrar would not be able to “inquire about or create a record of an applicant’s citizenship or immigration status.”
Reps. Christine Barber and Tricia Farley-Bouvier along with Sens. Brendan Crighton and Adam Gomez are the bill’s legislative sponsors.
Rep. Barker of Somerville refiled the bill because she believes it is more crucial than ever for driver’s license accessibility during the coronavirus pandemic.
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Since essential jobs cannot be done remotely, and there is a reduced public transportation schedule, many workers are at a greater risk of getting the virus.
Beyond safety reasons, for many immigrants, this bill will give them a sense of normalcy and security.
The driver’s license proposal failed to move forward in 2017 as Republican Gov. Charlie Baker opposed expanding driving privileges to immigrants without status.
Sixteen states already have similar laws in place.
WBZ NewsRadio's Karyn Regal (@KarynRegal) reports.
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Written by Edyn Jensen
(Photo: Mario Jarjour/WBZ NewsRadio)