As Wisconsin’s political landscape shifts with new electoral maps, a contentious debate is emerging over whether to reinstate driving permits for undocumented immigrants. Currently, about 19 states provide driving permits or cards to immigrants without legal residency, facilitating their daily activities. However, Wisconsin remains a holdout.
Critics are adamant that issuing driving permits to undocumented immigrants is a dangerous step that undermines the rule of law. “This policy sends the wrong message,” said Rep. David Steffen, a vocal opponent. “It rewards those who have broken immigration laws by giving them privileges meant for legal residents.” This sentiment is shared by many who worry that granting these permits could encourage more illegal immigration, effectively incentivizing people to bypass the legal process, according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette.
Economic and administrative concerns also loom large. Opponents point out that reinstating these permits would place an additional burden on already stretched state resources. The cost of managing and verifying the legitimacy of driving permits for a large undocumented population could be significant, potentially leading to inefficiencies and exploitation of the system. “This is not just about giving someone the ability to drive,” Steffen added. “It’s about the ripple effects on our economy and public services.”
Safety is another critical issue. While proponents claim that driving permits would make roads safer, opponents argue that the opposite could be true. “Without proper oversight, we could see an increase in traffic accidents,” warned a local law enforcement official who declined to be named. The concern is that the system could be misused or not properly enforced, leading to more incidents on the road rather than fewer.
The pushback against driving permits for undocumented immigrants is not just about legal or economic concerns—it’s also about fairness. “What about those who went through the legal process?” asked one Milwaukee resident. “It feels like a slap in the face to those who did everything by the book.” As this debate unfolds, many in Wisconsin are questioning whether this policy is the right approach or simply a step in the wrong direction.