A federal judge has struck down the Trump administration's lawsuit against New York's law allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses. The ruling permits the state to continue implementing the Green Light Law, which supporters say enhances road safety. New York Attorney General Letitia James hailed the decision as a victory for public safety and the rule of law.
On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Anne M. Nardacci, appointed by President Joe Biden, ruled in favor of New York in a lawsuit filed by the Trump administration. The administration had challenged the state's Green Light Law, enacted in 2020, arguing it preempted federal authority, discriminated illegally, or regulated against the federal government. Judge Nardacci found that the challengers failed to prove these claims, allowing the law to proceed, as reported by ABC News.
The Green Light Law enables undocumented immigrants to apply for New York driver's licenses using foreign passports or licenses from other countries, without needing to prove legal residency. New York Attorney General Letitia James praised the ruling, stating, “As I said from the start, 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.”
Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the February lawsuit, criticizing New York officials for “prioritiz[ing] illegal aliens over American citizens.” This marks a renewed effort against the law, which faced opposition during Donald Trump's first term. In 2020, the administration pressured New York by barring residents from trusted traveler programs, like those for faster airport processing. Then-Governor Andrew Cuomo responded by offering limited federal access to driving records but refused to share data on undocumented applicants with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. After a short legal battle, the federal government restored access to the programs.
The decision underscores ongoing tensions between state and federal policies on immigration and public safety measures.
