Gov.: Alter rules on foreigner licenses

Martinez directs agency action on regulations

Updated: Wednesday, 22 Jun 2011, 3:26 PM MDT
Published : Wednesday, 22 Jun 2011, 3:26 PM MDT

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Gov. Susana Martinez is directing state agencies to tighten regulations for granting driver's licenses to foreign nationals and illegal immigrants.

The governor said Wednesday the Taxation and Revenue Department and its Motor Vehicle Division will recommend changes in the documents that foreign nationals must submit as identification and proof that they are New Mexico residents.

The governor also said the agencies will try to determine whether foreign nationals who previously received driver's licenses are residents of the state.

New Mexico has issued at least 103,000 licenses to foreign nationals since 2003. State officials don't ask the immigration status of people so it's uncertain how many of those have gone to illegal immigrants.

The Legislature rejected the governor's proposal to stop granting licenses to anyone without a Social Security number.

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