FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 13, 2023
DETROIT, Mich. – The ACLU of Michigan applauds state legislators for introducing Drive S.A.F.E. (“Safety, Access, Freedom and the Economy), legislation that allows undocumented immigrants and others unable to prove their legal presence to obtain a driver's license or identification card.
This legislation, which is supported by a broad coalition that includes faith leaders, business owners and immigrant rights organizations, would finally remove barriers imposed in 2008 that prohibited undocumented immigrants from obtaining a driver’s license.
Nineteen states and the District of Columbia have already passed similar legislation.
ACLU West Michigan Advocacy Strategist Liz Balck released this statement on the need to pass this legislation and have it signed into law:
“Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and that includes enabling them to fully participate in their communities. Drive SAFE will ensure that undocumented immigrants can get to work, take their kids to school, visit a loved one at the hospital, and attend church. It will also reduce traffic stops resulting in arrest, detention, or needless deportation. It is time to restore driver’s licenses to all Michiganders once and for all.”
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