The state Assembly is expected to vote next week on a bill extending access to driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants. But the bill faces an uncertain path in the state Senate. Democrat Todd Kaminsky said there are still concerns to discuss.
“There are certainly some safety concerns that have been raised by law enforcement agencies about how a ID can be used and that's something we're looking at very closely. It's our job to do our due diligence and check every fact and something that impacts safety has to be looked at very closely,” said Kaminsky, (D) Senate - Long Beach.
Other lawmakers, like Senator Kevin Thomas, were less willing to talk about the issue, which remains politically fraught.
“Still to be determined,” said Kevin Thomas, (D) Senate – Levittown.
Supporters, including Assembly sponsor Marcos Crespo, have sought to frame the issue around an economic argument, and is hopeful the state Senate will consider the bill before the session ends on June 19.
“We've heard varying things. There seems to be a lot of expressions of support. A number of members have not signed on to the bill, but if it comes to the floor for a vote, they would support it,” said Marcos Crespo, (D) Assembly – Bronx.
Meanwhile at the Capitol, more than 60 people were arrested by State Police amid an extended protest over rent control regulations. The protesters got physical at times and two people were charged with third-degree assault.
“People are losing their protections as we speak and we're here to be a voice for that cause,” said Jawanza Williams, of Vocal NY.
“I've said many times, we're going to end up with the strongest rent control package ever. People have a right to protest and show their exuberance for the issues they believe in, but it should always be done in a civil manner,” said Carl Heastie, (D) Assembly speaker.
Senate Democrats in a statement say they have the support for the bills. Gov. Cuomo's office called their bluff, urging them to pass the measures now, which could extend rent control to upstate cities.