Undocumented immigrants could obtain a Michigan driver license or state identification card under Democratic legislation that sponsors hope to make law this year.
Supporters say that giving more illegal immigrants legal permission to drive to work, medical appointments or other functions without the threat of arrest or deportation is a matter of “human dignity” that would benefit the economy, including farmers who rely on seasonal labor.
“It is not the state government’s purview or job to fix our broken immigration system,” House Majority Floor Leader Abraham Aiyash, D-Hamtramck, said.
“We’re not going to wait for the federal government to act to make sure that all Michiganders are going to be safe.”
“My colleagues and I will do everything we can to make sure that we have the votes that are necessary to get these bills passed and signed into law,” Senate Civil Rights Committee Chair Stephanie Chang, D-Detroit, told reporters.
“There’s not an apple, blueberry, asparagus, turkey, egg (farm) that this legislation wouldn’t help,” said Rob Steffens. “Our people want to follow the law, but they can’t.”
More from BridgeMI
- In Michigan, an affordable housing ‘emergency’ looms
- Michigan Democrats in no rush to prioritize ‘fixing the damn roads’
- Michigan passes $21.5B school budget with boost for at-risk students
- Cooling off period proposed for Michigan lawmakers to become lobbyists
- Lawsuit aims to disqualify Trump from Michigan ballot
FAQs
Q: What do Michigan House bills 4410-4412 do?
A: Michigan House bills 4410-4412 would make noncommercial Michigan driver’s licenses and state identification cards available to applicants who do not have proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status.
Q: Why are these bills being introduced?
A: The bills are being introduced to address the needs of undocumented immigrants and other noncitizens who need a driver’s license or state identification card for driving, employment, and other purposes.
Q: Who would be eligible for a noncommercial Michigan driver’s license or state identification card under these bills?
A: To be eligible for a noncommercial Michigan driver’s license or state identification card under these bills, an applicant must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be a resident of Michigan
- Meet all other requirements for a driver’s license or state identification card, except for the requirement of proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status
Q: How would noncommercial Michigan driver’s licenses and state identification cards be different from regular Michigan driver’s licenses and state identification cards?
A: Noncommercial Michigan driver’s licenses and state identification cards would have the same appearance and function as regular Michigan driver’s licenses and state identification cards, except that they would be marked “NONCOMMERCIAL” and would not be valid for travel outside of the United States.
Q: When would these bills take effect if they are passed?
A: If these bills are passed and signed into law, they would take effect on October 1, 2024.
Additional information:
The bills were introduced by Representative Stephanie Chang on September 28, 2023.
The bills have been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Please note that this is just a summary of the legislation and does not constitute legal advice. If you have any questions about the legislation, you should consult with an attorney.
More Posts
Add on charges for your permanent record – Using a computer
The Use of Electronic Devices to Commit Crimes in Michigan Yes that means your cellphone... Computer" means any connected, directly interoperable or interactive device, equipment, or facility that uses a computer program or other instructions to perform specific...
MI Court of Appeals – MRTMA defense denied dismissal
Does the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act protect you in all Marijuana scenarios?The Conflict The central issue in this interlocutory appeal is whether the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA), MCL 333.27951 et seq., prevents a...
The “Automobile Exception” in Michigan law
The "automobile exception" in Michigan law allows police to search a vehicle without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe it contains evidence of a crime.This exception is grounded in the idea that vehicles are inherently mobile, meaning evidence could be...
Can You Be Charged for Using Your Phone During a Crime in Michigan?
Your breaking the law if you are using a cellphone while driving. On top of that if you're committing a crime and you use the phone... You're in for a prosecutor's extra round of office high fives.Can You Be Charged for Using Your Phone During a Crime in Michigan?...
The search being challenged was triggered by the odor of cannabis
The case People of Michigan v. Freddie Wilkins III (No. 367209) revolves around a legal challenge regarding the search of a vehicle without a warrant.Police conducted a warrantless search under the "automobile exception."The case People of Michigan v. Freddie Wilkins...
Prohibited person possessing firearm
Thinking about going hunting? Not if you are a person who is prohibited from possessing a firearm in Michigan.In Michigan, certain individuals are legally prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. Being caught with a firearm if you fall under this category can...
Carrying a Concealed Weapon in Michigan
Carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) in Michigan without proper authorization is a crime.Carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) in Michigan without proper authorization can lead to serious criminal charges. Michigan law has strict regulations regarding firearms, and violating...
MI Supreme Court Declines to Intervene in Public Records Dispute
Michigan Supreme Court Declines to Intervene in Public Records DisputeTeachers Union and School District at Odds Over Data AccessThe Michigan Supreme Court recently declined to hear a case regarding whether public school teachers' class materials are subject to the...
Felony Firearm Possession in Michigan
Felony Firearm Possession in Michigan.In Michigan, the laws surrounding firearms are strict, especially when it comes to felony firearm possession. If you’re charged with a felony and found to be in possession of a firearm during the crime, the penalties can be...
Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter for “Stopping” Thief
Charge with involuntary manslaughter for stopping thief.PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN V. HASSAN WALID AIYASHCase Summary: This case revolves around a gas station attendant who was charged with involuntary manslaughter after a patron was fatally shot inside the...