Republican elected officials, flanked by law enforcement on Wednesday at the Rensselaer County DMV, blasted the proposal that would allow undocumented immigrants to apply for and receive driver's licenses. 

"Why should any immigrant from any nation go through the arduous process, the process my grandparents went through of becoming a legal citizen of the United States, if they can attain the legal benefits of being a citizen without doing so," said Daphne Jordan (R - Halfmoon). 

But at the event, a counter demonstration of supporters for the legislation appeared, interrupting with songs and pushing back against claims made by the officials. 

"I may just get a banner put across the front of the building that we will have ICE on speed dial if I deem you're here ilegally," said Rensselaer County Clerk Frank Merola (R).

If approved, New York would be among 13 states that allow undocumented immigrants access to driver's licences. Supporters argue that would reduce insurance costs and boost revenue for the state. 

"We have a number of commitments from individuals in both the Assembly and Senate to vote yes on this legislation. Just because they have not co-sponsored it, we do not believe that committment is any less valid. So we do believe we have the support and we are eager to bring this to the floor for a vote," said Bryan MacCormack, executive director for the Columbia County Sanctuary Movement.

But among those Democrats on the fence is Assemblyman John McDonald (D - Cohoes). 

"States are having this discussion because of failed federal policies, Republican and Democrat. It's not one party versus the other," McDonald said. 

McDonald's office this month launched a survey to determine where his constituents stand on the issue of driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants.  

"This Green Light Bill came out of nowhere and that's one of the main reasons why we said let's put the survey out there, because it's really hard to tell where the sentiment is of the public that I represent," McDonald said. 

Governor Cuomo has said he would sign the bill if it passes.