Monday, October 6, 2008

GOVERNATOR VETOS SB60


To the Members of the California State Senate:

I am returning Senate Bill 60 without my signature.

This bill would require the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), within 240 days after the Secretary of Homeland Security approves the state’s REAL ID implementation plan, to 1) issue drivers’ licenses and identification cards that are in compliance with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005, and 2) issue drivers’ licenses that permit driving only to those applicants who do not provide valid documentary evidence of lawful presence.

This bill does not specify how DMV would validate the identity of individuals who do not have documented proof that their presence in the United States is authorized under federal law. I have previously stated that the ability to verify documents used to establish an identity must include a way to determine whether an individual is who he or she purports to be.

Given the potential impact of the REAL ID Act on the public safety and homeland security of Californians, members of my Administration continue to work closely with the federal government on these issues. Until the REAL ID Act is implemented and the federal government adopts comprehensive immigration reform, it is inappropriate to move forward with state law in this area.

For these reasons, I am returning this bill without my signature.

Sincerely,

Arnold Schwarzenegger

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Its not draconian enough?
It looks like we are being cornered by America's governors. DHS could capitulate by writing a worse bill?

Hey Arnold, maybe you should Veto the bill because its unamerican. Not that you would know the difference.