Via The Capitol Fax Blog.
The Chicago Tribune reports that the Illinois Legislature rejected a bill that would have allowed illegal immigrants to get a certificate to drive legally in the state. The bill was defeated 59-52. The Trib also reports that supporters of the bill are calling this a victory because more lawmakers were in support of it this time.
Under the measure, undocumented immigrants would have to pass driving tests, present a tax identification number, a foreign passport, file an affidavit that they would apply to be a permanent resident and hand over all illegally obtained driver’s licenses.
Rep. Ron Stephens (R-Mulberry Grove) said people should instead report to immigration offices, become documented and get a legal driver’s license.
Rep. Stephens has it right. Be here legally in the first place, you get the rights and privileges attendant thereto. The granting of rights and privileges to those here unlawfully only encourages such unlawfulness.