New York, NY — New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer has called for the expansion of driver’s
licenses regardless of immigration status.
Citing economic and safety benefits Comptroller Stringer has noted data highlighting the significant social and economic benefits of extending driving privileges to undocumented immigrants. Expanding driver’s license eligibility would increase license fees and vehicle ownership-related revenue to New York State. The data also shows the policy change would help support immigrant families by expanding job opportunities.
There are approximately 525,000 undocumented adult New Yorkers living across the five boroughs.
Currently, 12 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico grant drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants. Implementing the policy in New York City would result in 150,000 undocumented immigrants in New York City receiving licenses.
“For many of us, a driver’s license is nothing more than a piece of plastic tucked in between our credit cards, but for undocumented immigrants it means better job opportunities, a safe way to get your child to school, and to the hospital in an emergency – all without fear of deportation during a routine traffic stop,” said Comptroller Stringer. “The time is now for Albany to expand access to all New Yorkers because granting licenses isn’t just a statement of our moral values, it also makes sense from both a financial and public safety perspective.”
