Representative Hannah Kane (r) in a visit to Al-Hamra academy, located in the town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts | Photo courtesy of the Office of State Representative Hannah KaneShrewsbury State Representative Hannah Kane opposed legislation that would allow “undocumented” immigrants to obtain a Massachusetts driver’s license.
Representative Kane voted no on House Bill 4461, “An Act relative to work and family mobility”, which was approved by the House of Representatives on a vote of 120-36 on February 16, 2022.
The vote passed while the Massachusetts State House remained closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic that started two years ago.
Based on the bill, people who cannot provide proof of “lawful presence” in the United States would be able to obtain a non-REAL ID-compliant Massachusetts driver’s license.
To verify their identity, the “undocumented” immigrants will be able to use documentation such as a “valid” unexpired foreign passport, consular identification document, a “valid” unexpired foreign national identification card, or foreign driver’s license.
In a statement, Representative Kane said House Bill 4461 “sends the wrong message by essentially rewarding individuals who are not in the country legally, adding that it is unfair to those individuals who have followed the law to secure lawful presence status or citizenship. She also raised concerns about ensuring that individuals applying for a license are who they say they are and are not using forged documents, echoing Governor Baker’s concerns that the proposal is problematic given that ‘a driver’s license is a passport to a lot of things’ and maintaining that driver’s licenses should be restricted to citizens and to those who can prove their lawful presence in the country.”
Representative Kane said she is skeptical of the bill proponents’ claims that it will allow “undocumented” immigrants to insure their motor vehicles, generating additional revenue for the state. Kane says that “many individuals may not come forward because they distrust the government and will continue to drive without a license or insurance, or simply will not want to pay the added costs of insuring their car.” Representative Kane backed an alternative proposal, submitted via an amendment filed by Representative Shawn Dooley (Norfolk), that would instead allow “undocumented” residents to apply for a state-issued “driver privilege card” (DPC) to legally operate a motor vehicle in Massachusetts. Based on this proposal, applicants would be required to complete a comprehensive driver education and training course, provide proof of payment of all state and federal taxes as well as employment and submit sufficient documentation verifying their name, date, and place of birth. It also establishes minimum levels of auto insurance coverage for DPC holders and specifically states that these individuals will not be allowed to vote in any local, state, or federal election. The amendment was defeated on a voice vote.
The bill still requires the approval of the Senate and Governor Charlie Baker.
Subscribe to The Shrewsbury Post Updates
