Driver's license bill faces legislative test Wednesday

Posted at: 02/01/2012 7:37 AM
By: The Associated Press

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Republican Gov. Susana Martinez and her allies are making another appeal to the Legislature to overturn a New Mexico law allowing driver's licenses for illegal immigrants.

The House Judiciary Committee is to consider legislation on Wednesday that Democrats are offering as an alternative to the governor's proposal.

The Democratic-backed measure continues to allow driver's licenses to illegal immigrants but for only two years before needing renewal.Currently, licenses can last four or eight years.

The proposal also will cancel licenses previously issued to foreign nationals if they fail to renew them within two years.

Martinez opposes that bill, contending it's a public safety risk to grant licenses to illegal immigrants.

Another House committee rejected the governor's proposal last week, but Martinez hopes to revive her plan.

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