105°F
weather icon Windy

Oregon will allow undocumented immigrants to get licenses

SALEM, Ore. — Undocumented immigrants in Oregon will legally be able to obtain driver’s licenses under a measure sent to the governor’s desk.

Senators voted 17-10 Saturday to expand driving privileges to all Oregon residents regardless of their immigration status. Gov. Kate Brown is expected to sign.

The move will make Oregon the 14th state to allow undocumented immigrants to drive. New York approved a similar measure earlier this month.

The bill has been a priority for pro-immigration groups who say that undocumented immigrants often live in rural areas which requires having a car. Those without proof of residence say they live in fear that they could be deported over a traffic stop.

Opponents say that the measure should be sent to the ballot considering voters shot down a similar proposal in 2016.

MOST READ
Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook.
THE LATEST
Mexican flags at ICE protests spark debate over symbolism

The use of Mexican and other Latin American flags during the protests are a form of symbolism many conservatives are calling anti-American — while others argue they are an expression of pride in one’s homeland that could not be more American.

MORE STORIES