Should illegal immigrants receive driver's licenses? - Atlanta News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports | FOX 5

By Ainsley Earhardt, FOX News

Illinois house lawmakers have approved a bill allowing illegal immigrants to obtain driver's licenses. Governor Pat Quinn already says he'll sign it, making Illinois the third state in the country to make this move.

The house approved the measure on Monday.
       
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel released a statement favor of the bill. It reads in part that "the more we can do to help recent immigrants step out of the shadows the more they can do to make active contributions to our communities and economy."

The legislation would allow an estimated 250,000 illegal immigrants get 3-year renewable licenses.  Anyone who applies for it will have to take a driver's tests, prove their residency and have their photo entered into a state database. Some suggest the move might create mayhem.
       
"Unless we have uniform rules throughout the U.S., you know, I think it just invites fraud and um, invites chaos," said Illinois State Senator Ed Maloney, (D) 18th District.

The licenses could not be used for other identification purposes, such as for boarding a plane, buying a gun or voting. No license means no insurance, and if those drivers get pulled over it could lead to deportation. Some supporters say this will provide a small measure of security.

"It's what assures you that when you leave your home in the morning to go to work, you can come home to your kids in the evening," said immigrant Erendira Rendon.

If the bill is signed, it would make Illinois the third state in the country to allow illegals to drive, behind Washington and New Mexico.       
       
There is a growing movement in Connecticut to follow suit.

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