Jacobs: Illinois roadways will be safer in the future

The Illinois Senate passed legislation today that will help to make the roadways in Illinois safer for all drivers. Senator Mike Jacobs (D-Moline) voted to enact the Temporary Visitor Driver's License (TVDL), which will allow those who are undocumented to receive driver training and allow them to purchase liability insurance.

"This is certainly a tough issue and I can see both sides. However, the safety of all drivers was the overriding factor in why I voted for it. I can only hope that Washington will similarly step up and resolve the broader immigration issue," said Senator Jacobs, a member of the Senate Insurance Committee.

There are a number of safeguards in place that ensure that the Temporary Visitor Driver's License cannot be used in the same way a driver's license is for a citizen of Illinois

Differences between a driver's license and a Temporary Visitor Driver's License include:

· A TVDL may not be used for identification purposes — it only grants the issuer the right to drive a vehicle.

· To avoid confusion, a TVDL has a unique appearance and color to distinguish from a traditional driver's license.

· A TVDL is valid only for three years.

· A TVDL may not be used for commercial driving purposes.

· A TVDL will be declared invalid during any period of time in which a licensee fails to carry valid liability insurance.

"Although Immigration is a federal issue, until there are mandates in place, I believe our concern needs to be the safety of everyone on or roadways," Jacobs stated.