Reynolds denounces law that grants illegal immigrants driver's licenses

Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds, R-Amherst, held a press conference at the Department of Motor Vehicles at Erie County Community College, North campus, to denounce recent changes to New York State law that will allow illegal immigrants to obtain New York State driver's licenses in light of a new government report that says parts of the U.S.-Canadian border are vulnerable and could present a very serious security problem.

"I am troubled by this change in policy to allow illegal aliens access to driver's licenses, especially after reports signal security gaps along our border," Reynolds said. "This change in policy will only serve to make New York State a haven for illegal aliens and further strain the security and budgets of our counties, cities and towns. We don't want to make our northern border like our southern border, and sadly, this change in policy could lead us down that path."

The Government Accountability Office report states that particular parts of the border have exposed the United States to individuals who could smuggle radioactive materials into the country without being detected. GAO investigators found that they could sneak from Canada into the United States undetected, even while carrying a red duffel bag to simulate the smuggling of radioactive materials or other contraband.

The GAO concluded that Customs and Border Protection, part of the Homeland Security Department, face major challenges along the porous northern border. In addition, they found that there are significant challenges in effectively monitoring the border and preventing undetected entry into the United States. In order to effectively protect the northern border, the GAO recommends more human capital and technological capabilities.

"Those who have come to the United States illegally should not be rewarded with a New York State driver's license. Simply, this is bad policy exacerbating our broken immigration system," Reynolds said.

In addition, there are concerns about providing illegal immigrants with driver's licenses as it relates to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. As early as next year, WHTI would require anyone re-entering the United States to have a passport. Reynolds has been fighting for an enhanced driver license pilot project that is safe, simple, economical and accessible. Some experts think allowing illegal immigrants access to a driver's license could prevent an enhanced pilot project from happening in New York.

"From the beginning, I have been fighting the purposed passport requirement for all U.S. citizens," said Reynolds. "One of the programs I have suggested is an enhanced driver license identification program."