For Immediate Release

Contact: Joshua Reap (315) 415-4038

GOVERNOR, DMV FACE LAWSUIT FROM ASSEMBLY REPUBLICANS TO PREVENT DRIVER’S LICENSES FROM GETTING IN HANDS OF ILLEGAL ALIENS

State given October 31 deadline to stop “reckless” plan which endangers New Yorkers

     Assemblyman Gary D. Finch (R,C –Springport) is one of many state Assembly members and county clerks calling on Governor Spitzer and the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles to reconsider recent administrative changes that compromise state security and violates New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law.

     “This reckless plan is wrong for New York and wrong for our national security,” said Finch.  “New York state will be taking a step back in the fight against terrorism.  Furthermore, there are concerns that Spitzer’s changes violate state law.”

     Last week, Governor Spitzer acted unilaterally in calling on the DMV to change procedures that would allow residents to apply for a state driver’s license without using a social security number, and that only a foreign passport would be proof enough for identification.  These changes would allow illegal aliens and terrorists the ability to gain a New York state driver’s license.

     Several county clerks, who run the local DMV offices across the state, have stated they disagree with the governor’s plan to disregard state vehicle and traffic law and some have even said they will not enforce the governor’s changes.

     Assembly Republicans are demanding the policy be rescinded by October 31, by which point they will file a lawsuit seeking an immediate injunction to stop this policy if the governor and DMV do not comply.

     Finch expressed his displeasure with the new policy, stating that Spitzer’s plan is a “clear and present danger” to the safety and security of New York state and the entire nation.  The Assemblyman also pointed out that the governor’s idea violates state law and the federal Real ID Act.

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09/28/07