Regarding the Sept. 14 editorial on Measure 88, authorizing driver cards for illegal immigrants, I see a bill with no possibility of enforcement.
The bill requires applicants to pass a written test and driving test and provide proof of vehicle insurance. If they fail any of those requirements, will they then not drive? I suspect they’ll return to doing what they’ve always done: drive illegally.
Currently, illegal immigrants who cause accidents resulting in injury or death simply flee the scene. Most of the time they can’t be found. If they’re located, they aren’t prosecuted, deported or even fined. They have no culpability and suffer no consequences. Why would they want to change that?
Most people prefer not to add to their cost of living. Why would someone who currently drives without having to pay for insurance want to change that?
I can’t envision 160,000 undocumented immigrants beating a path to the state Driver and Motor Vehicle Services to say “Hey! I’m in your country illegally. Every day that I wake in your country I’m breaking your law. Here I am, now give me permission to drive.”
And if some of those 160,000 have an accident and have their insurance and/or driving privileges revoked, will they not drive? I suspect they’ll return to doing what they’ve always done: drive illegally.
Are people who have no qualms about living somewhere illegally going to be concerned about driving illegally?
I see no harm in passing Measure 88, but I also see no benefit.