SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is praising a House committee's action to develop a program allowing illegal immigrants to get driver's licenses.

The Democrat says the proposal would make Chicago and Illinois "more welcoming to immigrants."

A House transportation committee moved legislation to the floor Monday. It would allow illegal immigrants to get temporary licenses if they are trained and show year-long Illinois residency.

Emanuel says roads would be safer with trained, tested and insured drivers.

The licenses could not be used for identification or for law enforcement to target illegal immigrants for deportation.

Emanuel says the proposal would help "recent immigrants step out of the shadows" and be in a better position to contribute to communities and the economy.
Copyright © 2013 Associated Press

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Story by 89 WLS reporter Bill Cameron
In Springfield, lawmakers may do some pension reform because Illinois House Speaker Madigan is sounding like he wants to do something.

They won't be doing anything on two of Mayor Emanuel's priorities – a ban on assault weapons and same-sex marriage, but the mayor said Friday he's not giving up, "I'm a strong advocate. I will not tire in my fight to both bring in an assault weapon ban, marriage equality, as well I'll add to that, drivers licenses for immigrants because that is all in our interest as a state as a city, it is also in our interest of who we are and what our values are."

Backers are confident they will eventually have the votes for gay marriage, but opponents are confident they'll have the votes to block an assault weapons ban.
 

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - A proposal that could make Illinois the next state to allow illegal immigrants to get driver's licenses has passed out of a House committee.

It's ready for a House floor vote. Supporters say it's a matter of public safety and will allow an estimated 250,000 illegal immigrants in Illinois to get driver's licenses.

They'd have to take driver's tests, prove Illinois residency and have a picture taken for a state database. The cards couldn't be used to vote or board a plane.

Some House Republicans expressed worry Monday about potential for fraud.

The Senate approved the bill with little opposition. Gov. Pat Quinn says he'll sign it, if it comes to his desk.

Washington and New Mexico allow illegal immigrants to get licenses.
Copyright © 2013 Associated Press