The state Senate votes today on a bill that would have Minnesota comply with the federal REAL ID law — but the sticking point is whether undocumented immigrants would be able to get drivers licenses. Governor Mark Dayton says Minnesota will be safer that way. Republican House Speaker Kurt Daudt strongly disagrees, and adds the legislature is going to pass a REAL ID bill this year. “It’s gonna go to the governor’s desk and he is going to sign it,” says Daudt. “It is not going to include drivers license for undocumented Minnesotans.”
Senate Republican Majority Leader Paul Gazelka advises, keep that issue out of the bill. “To include it with REAL ID jeopardizes REAL ID,” he says. And how hard will Governor Dayton push so undocumented immigrants can get drivers licenses? “I’ve stated what my strong preference is,” Dayton says. “Whether we can achieve that or not in discussion with the legislative leaders, we’ll have to find out.”
Listen to Gov. Dayton’s comments from last week: