Demonstrations Mark First Day of Oregon License Law

"Boisterous dueling rallies at the Capitol marked the day as state workers for the first time imposed new rules to prevent illegal immigrants from getting a driver's license. The rules require the Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division to verify the Social Security number of anyone who wants a new license or ID card. The online process takes seconds, and DMV officials reported the day went smoothly. They also noted that longer customer lines have thinned," the Portland Oregonian reports. Oregonians for Immigration Reform gathered on the front steps of the Capitol, collecting signatures for a proposed three-point ballot measure that also would limit driver's licenses to U.S. citizens and legal residents.

"Across the street, several hundred immigration-rights advocates protested the driver's license changes with spirited cries of 'Si se puede' (yes we can) and marches around the building. They want the Legislature to reject proposed legislation that would enshrine the rules into law, which lawmakers are expected to do."

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