Blogs

If you read the last Policy Clearinghouse Update newsletter then you probably recall uproar caused by Governor Elliot Spitzer's plan to offer a driver's license to New York's undocumented immigrants.  While that effort failed to gain traction, Governor Martin O'Malley is drafting a similar proposal for Maryland.

According to a Washington Post article on Sunday, January 13, Maryland is currently one of eight states that allow state residents to get a license without proof of legal citizenship.  Governor O'Malley's proposal would institute a two-tier license system to comply with the federal government's Real ID program and still offer illegal immigrants documented driving credentials.

Opposition to the proposal comes from both sides.  Immigrant advocates fear that a different license would be like a scarlet letter, while others oppose paying to implement a program that benefits illegal immigrants.

Click here to read the entire Washington Post article.

According to an article in the Indianapolis Star on January 5th, the Indiana state legislature is considering a bill that would sanction employers who hire illegal immigrants.  If adopted, the new law would be similar to legislation passed in Arizona during 2007. 

If you were on the line for ACCE's Immigration Issue Jam with Peter Creitcos on December 4th, you are aware of the potential impact the Arizona law may have on business.  Business organizations in Indiana, including the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, have already voiced concerned about the proposal in their state.

To read the full article from the Indianapolis Star click HERE.

Information on the Arizona immigration bill can be found on other postings on this blog.

Last month we featured the new Arizona law sanctioning employers who hire illegal immigrants.  For everyone following this issue, here are links to two current stories about the potential impact.

- For an AP article discussing the burgeoning exodus of immigrants from Arizona click HERE.

- To read a Reuters piece addressing the potential impact of the law on Arizona businesses click HERE.