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Follow on Google News | Raleigh Immigration Lawyer Comments on Drivers' License for Immigrants BillBy: Clifford Law Group Raleigh immigration attorney Veronica Bayó Clifford of Clifford Law Group said the proposed bill could have a broad effect on undocumented immigrants who currently live in North Carolina and those who could potentially move to the state. "This bill is about more than granting driving privileges to immigrants in the state," Clifford said. "This bill essentially could allow talented job-seeking immigrants an opportunity to move and work here in the Research Triangle." House Bill 328, known as the Highway Safety/Citizens Protection Act, has been sponsored by Rep. Harry Warren, a Republican from Salisbury. Although there has been some criticism, the legislation has made it through the North Carolina judiciary committee. If approved, the bill would allow undocumented immigrants to apply for a one-year restricted driving permit, which would not be the same as a North Carolina driver's license. However, to be eligible they must meet the same driving qualifications, such as passing both a written and road test and having insurance. Additionally, applicants would be fingerprinted and be required to supply information concerning their legal status. They must be clean of criminal violations to be eligible. This information would not be used against them, Clifford said, including for deportation reasons. "If this becomes law, thousands of people in the state essentially could benefit," Clifford said. "Some immigrant drivers currently drive without the education and the valid documentation. This could be a way to have more safe drivers behind the wheel." The law also would create a permit card for immigrants, which would indicate the person's lack of legal status and would serve as a restricted form of identification. This means the permit could not be used to vote, board an airplane, enter a federal building or obtain public assistance, according to the bill. Part of the proposed bill also would increase penalties for possession, sale and manufacture of false identification. Currently, a violation of the law likely would be considered a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the bill is passed, an offense could be charged as a Class G felony. This could place some incentive on immigrants to obtain a restricted license, Clifford said. "Having these harsh penalties could deter people from hiding their identities," The bill still is subject to review by other committees before it could go up for a vote in the full House. Next it must be referred to the House’s Finance Committee. Veronica Bayo Clifford, of the Clifford Law Group, is a Raleigh employment-based immigration lawyer (http://www.thecliffordlawgroup.com/ End
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