* 25 February 2006: Despite the obvious adverse affects it would have to homeland security, New Jersey Assemblyman Joseph VAS introduced legislation that would allow driver’s licenses to be issued to individuals who cannot provide any proof of being in the U.S. legally, or any proof of their true identity. Perth Amboy mayor and state legislator Joseph VAS sponsored bill #A2607 that states, in part, that “the commission may issue a driving privilege card to a person who satisfies the requirements for issuance of a basic driver's license but cannot provide: (1) proof of lawful presence in the United States; or (2) sufficient identifying documentation.

While New Jersey has expended millions of dollars to secure their licensing process and create a new digital drivers license, the bill, if passed, would jeopardize the state’s licensing status and affect everyone who holds a valid New Jersey driver’s license. If VAS’ bill passes the state legislature, U.S. agencies would not recognize New Jersey licenses as valid identification under the Real I.D. Act that is scheduled to go into effect in 2008. Consequently, federal institutions such as banks and airlines would not accept a New jersey driver’s license as a valid form of identification.

BILL SPONSOR: NJ Assemblyman: Joseph VAS, 276 Hobart Street, Perth Amboy, NJ 08862; Telephone: (732) 324-5955

LINK: Copy of Proposed Legislation (PDF Format)