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Bring the People Out of the Shadows (Rep. Jerrold Nadler)

by N.Y. Dem. Rep. Jerrold Nadler - 09/27/07 9:51 AM ET

I commend New York Governor Eliot Spitzer’s recent decision to provide driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. As the Governor remarked last Friday, this move will help bring “people out of the shadows.

To allay concerns of fraudulent licensing, this new initiative contains anti-fraud measures to protect against abuse of the system, including document verification technology, special training for DMV staff, photo comparison technology and a residency requirement.

By adopting this proposal, New York is taking an important step to increase public safety as well. Studies from other states show that undocumented immigrants who are allowed to obtain driver’s licenses are more likely to work with law enforcement to help prevent and report crimes.

I applaud Governor Spitzer for his initiative which will make New York safer and more inclusive.