Mass. Senate votes to allow undocumented workers to get drivers license

BOSTON — BOSTON – By a vote of 32 to 8 the Massachusetts Senate passed a bill that puts undocumented workers one step closer to driving legally in Massachusetts.

“The community work very hard every day for to put the food on your table for families in the United States and pay taxes,” said Erica Aravalo, who was out in front of the State House advocating for licenses for undocumented workers.

Senator Brendan Crighton who represents the Third Essex District was a lead sponsor of the Senate bill.

Even in Greater Boston where we have public transportation you can’t get around most places without having a car.” said Sen. Crighton.

To get a license the bill requires:

• Undocumented workers to show two valid forms of ID
• Undergo driver education
• Obtain insurance

However, Governor Charlie Baker is likely to veto the bill, citing concerns over possible voter fraud.

“That’s a very easy fix and the fact it was rejected makes me very nervous. Where this all goes, and the complications we’re going to create for local cities and towns — around making sure that their voter rolls are accurate,” said Governor Baker.

But Sen. Crighton says that’s not an issue.

“Often folks connect having a driver’s license with being able to vote and that’s just not the case. The are systems in place so RMV will not share info unless that individual is a citizen,” said Sen Brendan Crighton.

Lawmakers say they have enough votes to override a veto from Governor Baker, should he choose to strike down the bill.

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