ALBANY, NY – Green Light NY, a bill that would permit undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses has passed in both the State Senate and Assembly. On Wednesday the Assembly passed the legislation by a 86-47 vote. The bill passed in the State Senate by a vote of 33 – 29. Governor Cuomo has signed the bill into law.

Well, that was quick: Cuomo just signed the driver’s license bill into law. #GreenLightNY

— Jon Campbell (@JonCampbellGAN) 18 Meitheamh 2019

S1747B – AN ACT to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to the issuance of non-commercial drivers’ licenses and learners’ permits; and to repeal certain provisions of such law relating to driver’s license applications.

READ THE FULL BILL – HERE

How Rockland County State Officials Voted:

Senator David Carlucci (CO-SPONSOR) – Yes
Senator James Skoufis – No

Assemblyman Karl Brabenec – No
Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee – Yes
Assemblyman Colin Schmitt – No
Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski – Yes

The bill allows undocumented immigrants access to the “standard” license, one of three license types the federal government will unveil in October 2020.

Governor Cuomo to sign the bill, according to Counsel Alphonso David

Elected Officials Reactions

“The Green Light Bill will keep our roads safer for all drivers,” said Senator David Carlucci. “Undocumented immigrants will have to pass a driving test and will be able to get insurance. Now if an accident happens, all drivers will be protected. Further, this bill will reduce insurance rates for everyone by about 10-20 percent. It’s estimated that it will also generate $57 million in annual revenue for the state from licensing and registration fees. This legislation makes sense and is the right step forward.” – Senator David Carlucci

“This is a slap in the face to all law-abiding citizens who follow the law, play by the rules
and earn our nation’s privileges. Bottom line – this bill is an utter disgrace.” – Assemblyman Karl Brabenec

“The New York City controlled State Assembly today (06/12/19) passed extreme legislation authorizing illegal immigrants to obtain drivers licenses. Despite bi-partisan opposition to the bill it was forced through and is now sent to the State Senate for consideration.

In a time when our focus should be on legislation that benefits law-abiding citizens, working to ease the path to legal citizenship and holding those accountable who break the law this radical bill is a step in the wrong direction.” – Assemblyman Colin Schmitt