SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (IRN) – What are the motives of politicians seeking to allow illegal immigrants to get driver’s licenses?

Former Gov. Jim Edgar says the idea is morally fair and politically smart. Gov. Pat Quinn says it’s a benefit to consumers– fewer uninsured motorists – and it’s a way to “include people,” he said.

But Illinois Senate President John Cullerton (D-Chicago), the sponsor in the Senate, says for him, the matter is safe driving. “It’s really a highway safety measure in my mind. It obviously has some other benefits. It’s very symbolic. It’s also very practical,” he said.

Cullerton has a history of advocating for highway safety, on issues such as the seat belt law, child safety seats, DUI laws and texting while driving.

Illinois has an estimated 250,000 illegal immigrants who are driving without licenses. This measure would allow them to get tested, licensed and carry insurance like everybody else, supporters say. It may come up during the Veto Session in Springfield Nov. 27-29 and Dec. 4-6.

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