NEW YORK (Flux Daily) — A federal judge ruled on Tuesday that New York’s Green Light Law, which allows individuals to obtain driver's licenses without proving their legal status in the country, is valid. This decision countered efforts by the Trump administration to halt the law amidst concerns about illegal immigration.
U.S. District Judge Anne M. Nardacci, based in Albany, determined that the federal government failed to provide sufficient evidence to support claims that the Green Light Law contravenes federal immigration laws or discriminates against federal authorities. The lawsuit, initiated by the Justice Department in February, named New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James as defendants.
In response to the ruling, Attorney General James stated, Our laws protect the rights of all New Yorkers and keep our communities safe. I will always stand up for New Yorkers and the rule of law. The Green Light Law was put in place to improve overall road safety by allowing undocumented individuals to acquire proper documentation and obtain auto insurance, thus reducing incidents involving uninsured drivers.
Historically, this legal battle traces back to 2020 when the Trump administration attempted to pressure New York regarding its licensing practices by blocking state residents from enrollment in trusted traveler programs.
In her ruling, Judge Nardacci emphasized that her role was not to opine on the law's policy merits, but to evaluate the constitutional arguments presented by the Trump administration, which she found lacking. The ruling illustrates a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate surrounding immigration laws and state rights.
