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Crime & Safety

Driver License Bill Advances to the Senate Floor

The legislation aims to grant a license to applicants "regardless of their immigration status."

Written by Jennifer Squires

Assemblymember Luis Alejo’s (D-Salinas) AB 60, The Safe and Responsible Driver Act, moved out of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Friday with a vote of 5-2.  AB 60 will ensure that virtually all drivers on California highways are properly trained, licensed, and insured.  

Technical amendments were taken in the Senate Appropriations Committee simply to ensure that AB 60 does not conflict with other legislative measures that amend the same section in code. 

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

The following is a statement from Alejo on the passage of AB 60:

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“I want to commend the Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and all other members of the Committee for letting the bill move forward.  In the next two weeks, I am committed to working with my colleagues and all the different stakeholders to address any issues that might remain with the bill. 

“At the end of the day, we have in our hands a unique opportunity to ensure road safety for the 22.6 million motorists in California. This year, numerous states have granted licenses to immigrants regardless of their immigration status. 

"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. We are talking about people who contribute to our communities and our economy every day. 

"They are our neighbors, taxpayers, and family. We can’t wait any longer; California needs to be at the front on this important issue.” 

Luis Alejo represents the 30th District in the California State Assembly, which consists of the Salinas Valley, Monterey County, San Benito County, South Santa Clara County and the city of Watsonville in Santa Cruz County.

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