In 2017, when Cuomo made New York a sanctuary state, it allowed undocumented immigrants to get permits. Previously, only those having Employment Authorization Cards (EAC) were able to, however, they maintained a Limited-Term notation. By passing the law in 2017, it also removed that notation from licenses and permits. The state maintained that the undocumented would bring revenue in by registering vehicles and having insurance. Which, in turn, would have them more likely stay at the scene of a vehicular accident. Speaking professionally and personally, they have not. Every day I am aware of the accidents they cause and my husband was involved in a hit and run by an undocumented. I agree NY can use the revenue, however, I don’t see the reason why that notation should be removed off their licenses/permits. Other sanctuary states ( Ohio, Maryland, Washington, for example) did not remove their Limited-Term notation. My belief for NY removing it was tied in with voting. Because they hadn’t previously voted, there wasn’t a previous signature to compare with, voters had to show photo ID. Once they presented their license, had the notation been present, they would have been refused a ballot/ affadavit to vote. Now, they are given an affadavit with a ballot to be reviewed within the upcoming days. I believe it questions the integrity of our voting system. I hope my reasons that I’ve spoken about, would create a policy to put back the Limited-Term notation on licenses/permits.
Thank you for this forum and opportunity and for your consideration in this matter.