SANTA FE, N.M. -- Republican Gov. Susana Martinez suffered a temporary political setback Thursday in a bid to stop New Mexico from granting driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.
A legislative committee shelved her proposal and approved a Democratic-backed alternative that continues to allow licenses for illegal immigrants but with new restrictions.The politically charged fight is far from over. The legislation heads to another panel for consideration; Martinez stands a strong chance of success if the issue reaches the full 70-member House for a vote.The House Labor and Human Resources Committee voted 5-4 along party lines for what Democrats described as a compromise proposal. Republicans opposed it.The measure would let illegal immigrants continue getting licenses, but for only two years before needing renewal. Licenses now can last four or eight years. The measure would increase penalties for license fraud and cancel licenses previously issued to foreign nationals if they renewed them within two years, letting the state determine whether people remain New Mexico residents.State law enforcement and Martinez administration officials told the committee that New Mexico's licensing law poses a security risk to the state and rest of the country."This has never been an immigration issue. It's not about immigration. It's simply about public safety and security," said Keith Gardner, the governor's chief of staff.But church leaders and immigrant-rights advocates say a driver's license is critical for immigrants living and working in New Mexico, many with U.S.-born children. The push to repeal New Mexico's law is stirring an anti-immigrant sentiment, they said.Have more to add? News tip? Tell us
