Richmond, VA - Arlington County Board considered whether or not to support state legislation permitting licenses for immigrant drivers. The Arlington Chapter of New Virginia Majority has been meeting with County representatives for the last year seeking support for this legislation.  The Arlington County Board meeting was held at 3 PM at 2200 Clarendon Blvd. in Arlington. The board voted 4-0 to unanimously support the measure.

This is an important step forward, according to chapter leader Luz Crespo: “We are excited that the County government is taking this important step supporting much-needed state driver’s license reform.  We are doing what we can to encourage a positive solution to the transportation crisis many of us face whether taking our kids to school, going to work, and even buying groceries.” Dozens of residents and community leaders will attend the County Board meeting to demonstrate their support.  

Ten states, including Maryland, allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses.  Permitting immigrants to obtain driver's licenses increases public safety, lowers insurance rates, and contributes to a more welcoming Virginia.  This will be an affirmative step by the County Board that Arlington stands behind its immigrant communities.

New Virginia Majority is Virginia’s largest statewide civic engagement organization and has been leading efforts to secure driver’s licenses for all residents of Virginia.  

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New Virginia Majority builds power in working-class communities of color across the Commonwealth. We organize for racial and economic justice through large-scale political education, mobilization, and advocacy around dozens of issues. We fight for a Virginia that is just, democratic, and environmentally sustainable.