Illinois state Rep. Edward J. Acevedo, Chicago Democrat, listens to lawmakers while ... more >SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois House has approved legislation allowing illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses.
House lawmakers approved the bill 65-46. The measure now heads to Gov. Pat Quinn, who has said he will sign it.
Supporters of the bill, which sailed through the state Senate, have been bipartisan. They call it a matter of public safety that will allow an estimated 250,000 illegal immigrants of driving age in Illinois to get driver’s licenses.
The licenses would not be used for identification purposes, such as to board a plane. Anyone who applies will have to take driver’s tests, prove Illinois residency and have a picture taken that would go into a state database.
Washington and New Mexico allow illegal immigrants to get licenses.
'Your papers, please' must never be heard in America
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Born in 1930 in rural Missouri, Charles Vandegriffe, Sr., brings his time and place to the Communities.
In a world that is increasingly complex, we need to seek greater awareness of the blending of cultures and America's changing role in a global community.
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