GOP States Target Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants

Florida's Legislation

Florida was the first state to invalidate out-of-state driver's licenses issued to undocumented immigrants . Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1718 into law, which prohibits the issuance of driver's licenses to individuals without proof of lawful presence in the U.S. The law also specifies that out-of-state licenses issued exclusively to undocumented immigrants are invalid in Florida.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles published a list of invalid out-of-state licenses, including those from Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Individuals presenting these licenses during a traffic stop may face penalties outlined in Florida Statutes Section 322.03.

Other States' Actions

Following Florida's lead, other Republican-led states have proposed similar legislation:

• Tennessee: Proposed legislation to criminalize local governments' support for sanctuary policies and introduce identifiable markers on noncitizens' driver's licenses.
• Wyoming: Enacted a ban on out-of-state driver's licenses issued to undocumented immigrants.
• Alabama, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and South Carolina: Proposed similar laws targeting out-of-state licenses issued to undocumented immigrants.

Implications and Controversy

The push to invalidate out-of-state driver's licenses has significant implications:

• Interstate Relations: States that issue such licenses, including California, New York, and Illinois, view these laws as essential for integrating undocumented immigrants into society.
• Legal Challenges: Legal experts anticipate challenges to these state laws on constitutional grounds, particularly concerning the Full Faith and Credit Clause.
• Public Opinion: Public opinion on this issue is divided, with supporters viewing the measures as necessary to enforce immigration laws, while opponents argue they unfairly penalize individuals contributing to society.

Conclusion

The movement by GOP states to invalidate out-of-state driver's licenses issued to undocumented immigrants represents a significant shift in immigration policy at the state level. While proponents view these measures as essential for enforcing federal immigration laws, opponents argue that they undermine the rights of individuals legally residing in other states and could lead to increased legal challenges.