Republicans Fighting Big Change To NJ Driver's Licenses

Republicans say they're fighting a big change to New Jersey driver's licenses that could impact who's allowed to have them.

Sen. Christopher J. Connors, Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf and Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove have started an online petition to oppose a plan to provide driver’s licenses to illegal aliens in New Jersey.

Connors, Rumpf and Gove say they started an online petition because they oppose Murphy’s efforts to turn New Jersey into a "sanctuary state."

“Along with the benefits that New Jersey already has in place for illegal aliens, including free in-state college tuition, allowing them to obtain driver’s licenses will firmly establish New Jersey as a sanctuary state," the Republicans said in a statement. "It’s not surprising in the least that this proposal has drawn outrage from across our legislative district.

Read more: 2 Big Changes To NJ Driver's Licenses Expected

The change could come in the form of legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Annette Quijano and Senator Joseph Vitale that would help immigrants and others who face barriers in obtaining a license.

If passed, the new bill would allow residents unable to prove lawful presence in the United States to receive permits and standard driver's licenses or identification cards. Gov. Phil Murphy and Senate President Steve Sweeney say they're supportive of the overall concept.

The proposed legislation is a "common sense" solution for the numerous New Jerseyans who need a driver's licenses to provide and care for their families, said Mayor Andre Sayegh of Paterson.

"From immigrants to senior citizens, from the homeless to survivors of domestic violence, this option would protect residents' privacy while ensuring that all drivers can be trained, tested, and have access to insurance," Sayegh said.

Republicans, however, questioned how lenient the documentation requirements will be for illegal aliens to obtain a license.

"What additional resources will be needed by the MVC to process persons without official documentation and at what cost to taxpayers? Will applicants with criminal records be reported to ICE? Will state policy require MVC staff to have a driver’s license in one hand and voter registration form in the other?"

Citizens can view and sign the petition here: www.senatenj.com/sanctuarystate/.

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