Driver License Bill Passes Assembly Floor with Bipartisan Support

Submitted by the Office of Assemblymember Luis Alejo

Assemblymember Luis Alejo’s (D-Watsonville) AB 60, The Safe and Responsible Act, passed out of the Assembly Floor with a bipartisan vote of 54-20 Wednesday. 

AB 60 will ensure that virtually all drivers on California highways are properly trained, licensed, and insured.

“Today is the first time in history that this measure has received bipartisan support on the Assembly Floor. This measure has been long-overdue. With California having the largest immigrant population, it is important that we make sure motorists are trained, licensed, and insured to enhance safety on our roads,” says Alejo. “We are talking about people who contribute to our communities and our economy every day. They are our neighbors, taxpayers, and family.’’

Assemblymember Das Williams (D-Santa Barbara), who is a co-author of the bill comments, “This bill is about keeping us all safe on the roads, regardless of who is behind the wheel. Local law enforcement has told me that this measure will improve traffic safety by allowing proper training and testing of drivers and identifying wrongdoers. We all share the roads so let’s work together to make them as safe as possible.” 

Dave Jones, Department of Insurance Commissioner, states his support, “Insurance industry estimates state that approximately 15 percent of the cars on the road do not have insurance. AB 60 would improve roadway safety by making sure that all California motorists are properly trained, have passed a driving test, and know state driving laws. Allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver licenses will also reduce the number of uninsured motorists, which benefits all Californians by increasing the likelihood that insurance is in force at the time of an accident.” 

In 1993, Governor Pete Wilson signed legislation that requires all driver license applicants to provide a valid social security number and proof of lawful presence in the United States.

“Current law undermines highway safety by preventing many motorists from being properly trained, tested, and insured. These requirements force many Californians to drive unlicensed and uninsured, undermining the Department of Motor Vehicle’s mission to ensure public safety, and limiting law enforcements’ ability to effectively perform its duties,” commented California Immigrant Policy Center, Government Affairs Manager, Ronald Coleman.

The bill will now be sent to the State Senate for consideration.