Illinois to give illegal immigrants licenses

Governor Quinn has a bill on its way to his desk that would allow illegal immigrants to obtain temporary driver's licenses in Illinois. The Governor supports the bill, which proved controversial in the legislature.

CHICAGO, IL (Catholic Online) - Opponents of the bill say it will invite fraud and abuse leaving too many questions unanswered after debate.

Meanwhile, supporters see it as a security issue.

Estimates are that some 250,000 individuals will apply for the new licenses that would be valid for three years. They would also be renewable.

All that will be required will be one year of residence in Illinois, and copies of bills to prove residence. The licenses could also be sued for identification purposes.

However, the licenses cannot be used for doing other things such as purchasing a gun or voting.

Opponents of the bill want to see additional security added to it, such as fingerprinting. The bill's supporters oppose fingerprinting because it would add substantial cost to the program.

However, Republican House leader, Tom Cross said that Illinois should welcome immigrants "who want to work, who want to be part of our communities. We should work with them, not fight with them."

Quinn has already pledged to sign the bill.

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