LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The “Driver’s Licenses for All” proposal that was brought to both Kalamazoo city and county commissioners is now being introduced in the state legislature.
On Thursday Senators Stephanie Chang and Winnie Brinks as well as Representatives Alex Garza and Rachel Hood proposed the “Drive SAFE” bills which would restore access to driver’s licenses for immigrants in Michigan.
However, immigrants interested in a license would have to undergo the same process as everyone else, including tests and fees.
Kalamazoo County and City Commissioners passed a resolution encouraging lawmakers to make the change when residents brought it up to them months ago.
“The introduction of the bill is because of two years of immigrant organizing in Michigan. We took to the streets and mobilized immigrants and allies from Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo to Ann Arbor and Detroit. The power of the community has gotten this bill introduced and it will win us licenses for all,” said Idalia Tinoco, an immigrant business owner and representative from Movimiento Cosecha Grand Rapids.
Michigan previously allowed undocumented immigrants to obtain licenses until the law was changed back in 2008.
Currently, 14 other states allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses.
