Lawmakers to press for driving licenses for illegals in Massachusetts

Immigrant advocates work with Democrats on proposed changes

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Immigrant advocates will meet at the State House in Massachusetts on Tuesday to ask lawmakers to back a bill that will allows all state residents to apply for a driver’s license, regardless of their immigration status.

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Irish immigration campaigners will welcome moves to allow all residents to apply for a driving license in Massachusetts regardless of their status.

The Boston Herald reports that immigrant advocates will meet at the State House on Tuesday to ask lawmakers to back a bill that will allows all state residents to apply for a driver’s license, regardless of their immigration status.

At present, Massachusetts law requires immigrants seeking a driver’s license to prove that they are in the country legally. The immigrant advocates say the proposed changes will ensure that drivers on state roads are trained, licensed and insured.

The report says that the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition has worked with Democratic lawmakers on the new plans.

Sen. Patricia Jehlen of Somerville and Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier of Pittsfield will introduce the Safe Driving Bill to address the fact that unlicensed immigrants need to drive children to school and relatives to hospitals.

The advocates will gather on Tuesday at the State House to press lawmakers to back the bill.

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