Relating to the requirement of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States for issuance or renewal of certain occupational licenses, driver's licenses, and identification certificates.
Impact
If enacted, HB 1061 would amend the Occupations and Transportation Codes to require that all licensing authorities in Texas adopt uniform rules ensuring that only applicants who meet the citizenship requirement are eligible for various state-issued licenses. This legislative change is intended to assist in the enforcement of immigration laws and could significantly affect individuals applying for licenses who may not possess or be able to provide the requisite documentation of U.S. citizenship.
Summary
House Bill 1061 aims to enforce the requirement of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States for the issuance and renewal of certain occupational licenses, driver's licenses, and identification certificates. The bill stipulates that applicants must provide proof of employment eligibility when applying for a license or renewing an existing one. The document outlines specific acceptable forms of proof, including U.S. passports, naturalization certificates, and other government-issued documentation that verifies the applicant's legal status in the U.S.
Contention
There are notable points of contention surrounding this bill. Supporters advocate for the necessity of such requirements to ensure that only eligible individuals can engage in occupations regulated by the state, which they argue is essential for maintaining the integrity of these professions and ensuring public safety. However, critics contend that this measure may unfairly restrict access to essential services, particularly for lawful residents who do not hold U.S. citizenship. Concerns also include potential discrimination and the increased bureaucratic burden on both applicants and licensing authorities.
Relating to the requirements for the renewal of a driver's license, personal identification certificate, commercial driver's license, or commercial learner's permit for a sex offender.
Relating to the requirement that a peace officer take possession of a person's driver's license following the person's failure to pass or refusal to consent to a test for intoxication.
Relating to the administration of the motorcycle operator training and safety program and requirements for the issuance of certain driver's licenses and commercial driver's licenses; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.
Relating to certain agreements entered into with the Department of Public Safety for the issuance of renewal and duplicate driver's licenses and other identification certificate services, including voter registration services; increasing the amount of a fee.
Relating to the requirement of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States for issuance or renewal of certain occupational licenses, driver's licenses, and identification certificates.
Relating to the requirement of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States for issuance of a driver's license, personal identification certificate, commercial driver's license, or commercial driver learner's permit.
Relating to the requirement of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States for issuance of a driver's license, personal identification certificate, commercial driver's license, or commercial driver learner's permit.
Relating to the requirement of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States for issuance of a driver's license, personal identification certificate, commercial driver's license, or commercial driver learner's permit.
Relating to the creation of a Texas resident driver's permit, provisional Texas resident driver's permit, and Texas resident driver's instruction permit; authorizing fees; creating an offense.
Relating to the enforcement of state and federal laws governing immigration by certain governmental entities and the administration of certain documentation of citizenship status and other lawful admittance by the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas.