Published By:Democracy Now!
New York Grants Driver’s Licenses to Undocumented Residents
Today in New York, immigrant rights activists are celebrating after Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law a bill allowing undocumented residents to obtain driver's licenses. The bill overturns a nearly 20 year ban and came after years of grassroots and political organizing. Proponents of the bill say it not only helps to protect immigrant communities but also makes roads safer. Ana Maria Archila of the Center for Popular Democracy tweeted about historic passing of the legislation, commonly referred to as the green light bill, saying, “for as long as I've been an activist we've been trying to win driver's licenses for all New York state residents. This fight is about the freedom to move without fear and the right to return to our families at the end of the day. Today democracy came alive and delivered justice.