The Bremen Town Council members reviewed a resolution Monday afternoon that would support state legislation establishing driving privilege cards.
Members of La Voz Unida and community members crowded inside the Bremen Town Hall during the council’s earlier meeting in February to show unity in front of the members in that they pass a resolution endorsing legislation in Indiana that paves the way to the establishment of a process through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles in order for undocumented Indiana residents to obtain driving privilege cards.
Senate Bill 248 language would provide an individual who is an Indiana resident and cannot provide proof of identity and lawful status in the United States an opportunity to apply for a driving privilege card to obtain driving privileges.
Ed Rodriguez explained to the Bremen Town Council members that there are several working citizens that need to get to work, but cannot do so legally so they either drive illegally or have to obtain a way to get to work. He said the driving card would not be used for anything other than driving. It cannot be used for identification, to vote, to travel out of state, or to fly on an airplane. The privilege would require the person to continuously maintain financial responsibility on any motor vehicle operated by that person required by law.
Rodriguez also stated that the individual would have to provide federally recognized documents in order to get a card. The individual needs to provide proof of paying Indiana state taxes. Some eligible individuals can apply for an Individual Tax Identification Number through the IRS as a method of paying taxes.
The individual must also pass a driving test and written exam. The card would only be good for one year, with an opportunity for renewal.
With the provisions included in the bill, not all undocumented residents will qualify for a driving privilege card.
Town Attorney Anthony Wagner told the council members this week that it was his understanding that the bill may have stalled for this session, but recommended that the council approve the resolution as presented.
The resolution before the council members Monday afternoon states that support of the driving privilege card is in the best interest of the residents of the Town of Bremen for safety and encourages legislators to consider the needs and priorities of all residents of Indiana.
The council members approved the resolution with a unanimous vote.
