https://boston.cbslocal.com/2019/09/...F9rWoobE3HY5X0
The legislation (H 3012/S 2061) filed by Reps. Tricia Farley-Bouvier of Pittsfield and Christine Barber of Somerville, and Sen. Brendan Crighton of Lynn, would permit all qualified residents, regardless of immigration status, to apply for and receive a
standard state license under the state’s now-two-tiered system.
Fourteen states, including Connecticut and Vermont, have laws in place allowing all residents to acquire some type of license or permit regardless of immigration status, according to supporters.
The Massachusetts legislation would not affect federal Real ID-compliant licenses, which require proof of citizenship or lawful residence as well as a Social Security number.
“This is a public safety bill. The passage of this bill will mean that all drivers in the commonwealth will be trained, will be licensed and will be insured,” Farley-Bouvier said. “When all drivers are trained, licensed and insured, all drivers, all passengers, all cyclists and pedestrians are safer.”
Barber reminded the Transportation Committee that Massachusetts already issues driver’s licenses to green card holders, foreign students and immigrants covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy.
Obtaining a standard driver’s license, she said, does not allow someone to vote, does not make them eligible for any public benefits they do not already receive and soon cannot be used to board an airplane.