Bill > SF1482

This bill strengthens requirements for lawful presence documentation when obtaining a Minnesota driver's license or identification card. Specifically, the bill requires applicants to provide proof of legal presence in the United States as a prerequisite for obtaining a driver's license or ID card, adding this as a new disqualifying condition for license issuance. The legislation amends multiple sections of Minnesota statutes to mandate that all applicants must demonstrate their lawful status in the country, with exceptions for certain types of identification cards. The bill introduces new language requiring applicants to include documentation proving their legal presence, and modifies existing rules about what documents can be used and how immigration status data can be handled. The changes apply to both standard and noncompliant driver's licenses and identification cards, with provisions designed to protect the privacy of applicants' immigration status data. The bill's stated intent is to enhance public safety and comply with federal immigration law, and it will become effective on October 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to implement the new requirements. Notably, the bill includes protections to prevent the use of noncompliant driver's licenses as the primary basis for immigration-related investigations or detentions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1482&ssn=0&y=2025