The Michigan House rejected a bill that would have allowed residents to obtain driver’s licenses regardless of their immigration status. While similar proposals have been introduced in previous legislative sessions, they had never been brought to a vote—until now.
On Thursday, House Republican leadership forced a vote on House Bill 4195, introduced by Rep. Joe Tate, D-Detroit. The bill, part of a three-bill package known as Drive SAFE, sought to allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses and state IDs. Although the Republican majority opposed the measure, they compelled Democrats to publicly declare their stance.
Despite the push, HB 4195 failed, with 39 votes in favor and 64 against. Notably, six Democratic lawmakers—Jasper Martus (Flushing), Denise Mentzer (Mt. Clemens), Reggie Miller (Van Buren Township), Amos O’Neal (Saginaw), Angela Witwer (Delta Township), and Mai Xiong (Warren)—joined Republicans in voting against it.
A Political Move or a Policy Debate?
In a passionate floor speech, Tate referenced his faith, accusing Republican leadership of engaging in political games instead of addressing pressing issues.
“I am an imperfect man of faith,” Tate said. “Growing up in the church, we learned about compassion and justice. The Book of Matthew asks how we care for the least among us. How are we taking care of Michigan residents in this chamber?”
His remarks were cut short as he criticized House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, for what he called a “political ploy.”
House Speaker Pro Tempore Rachelle Smit, R-Shelbyville, called on each Democratic lawmaker individually to cast their votes. Hall later defended the move, saying the vote forced Democrats to publicly justify their support for the bill.
Divided Opinions on Immigration and Licensing
Republicans have long opposed policies that they see as rewarding illegal immigration. State Rep. Joe Aragona, R-Clinton Township, stated, “We should not reward people who come here illegally.”
Supporters of the Drive SAFE bills argue that allowing undocumented residents to obtain identification would remove barriers to essential services like health care, banking, and housing. The legislation had backing from immigrant rights groups, agricultural businesses, and the Michigan Catholic Conference in past sessions.
Since 2008, Michigan has required proof of legal residency for driver’s licenses and state IDs. The policy change followed a 2007 opinion by then-Attorney General Mike Cox, a Republican, which reversed a 1995 decision by former Attorney General Frank Kelley, a Democrat.
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