DFF-campaignersDriving is essential to mobility in Massachusetts, especially outside Greater Boston. Public transit options are far too limited to enable most residents to get to work, take their children to the doctor, or buy groceries. Indeed, 78% of workers in our Commonwealth rely on personal vehicles to get to their jobs.

But under current law, you can’t get a driver’s license in Massachusetts without proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence. For as many as 250,000 undocumented immigrants in our communities, this can create enormous hardships.

And for those who can’t avoid driving, it greatly increases the risk of family separation, as even a routine traffic stop can lead to arrest and then to ICE detention.

MIRA is proud to be part of the Driving Families Forward Coalition, which is advocating for the Work and Family Mobility Act).

This bill would enable all qualified state residents to apply for a standard state driver’s license, regardless of immigrant status, while keeping our Commonwealth in full compliance with REAL ID requirements. It has been endorsed by over 230 organizations, including the Mass. Major City Chiefs of Police, as well as dozens of businesses.

16 states, Puerto Rico and D.C. already offer licenses to all qualified drivers. Let’s make it happen in Massachusetts!

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What can you do?

Call or email your legislators and urge them to prioritize this bill, or use the DFF letter-writing tool

Follow the Driving Families Forward campaign and share their posts!

Key resources:

Work and Family Mobility Act factsheets (English, Spanish, endorsing organizations and business case)

Boston Globe editorial supporting licenses for all

Driving Families Forward campaign on Facebook