SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Senate has approved a proposal to grant short-term driver’s licenses to people living in the country illegally.
The Senate approved the bill in a 20 to 7 vote on Monday. It now goes to the House.
The bill would allow immigrants, among others, who have lived in Oregon for at least a year and meet other requirements, to apply for driver’s licenses without proving legal presence.
The bill sparked controversy at a lengthy public hearing held earlier this month. Lawmakers heard from opponents who said the proposal would attract criminals to Oregon. Supporters of the licensing program said it would make Oregon’s roads safer because there would be more trained and insured drivers.
Talk to us
- You can tell us about news and ask us about our journalism by emailing newstips@heraldnet.com or by calling 425-339-3428.
- If you have an opinion you wish to share for publication, send a letter to the editor to letters@heraldnet.com or by regular mail to The Daily Herald, Letters, P.O. Box 930, Everett, WA 98206.
- More contact information is here.