Some states, like Washington, have more advantages for immigrants without a legal status. Washington allows immigrants without legal status to obtain a driver’s license. Washington has had success disregarding immigration status when it comes to getting a driver’s license because supporters recognize that licensed drivers are aware of safety rules and have insurance. Washington also allows Dreamers, undocumented students that came into the United States as children, to attend college at state resident tuition rates. Along with Washington, 14 other states, and the District of Columbia are in favor of President Obama’s executive actions to protect undocumented immigrants. Supporters argue that the programs would raise wages for all workers and swell tax revenues.
Other states like Texas, have different views on immigration. In Texas, undocumented immigrants cannot drive because they need a Social Security number in order to get a driver’s license. Texas, along with 25 other states, are against President Obama’s executive actions. President Obama’s executive actions to protect millions of illegal immigrants from deportation and give them work permits are currently on hold after U.S. District Court Judge Andrew Hanen in Texas blocked the implementation of his programs. The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in New Orleans has set a hearing for April 17th to determine the status of these programs.
The purpose of this article is to provide helpful, basic information for residents in the Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York areas. More information, or to subscribe to receive an email when additional information on this is available, can be found on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov. We are here to answer any questions you have and give legal advice concerning this and other legal immigration concerns. If you are in Connecticut or the New York area,contact Attorney James A. Welcome or call (203) 806-7922.