(AP) — Legislation to give driving privileges to more immigrants living in the country illegally is poised for debate in the North Carolina House.
The bill called the “Reclaim NC” Act scheduled for discussion Monday evening also would give law enforcement officers authority to detain anyone suspected of lacking documentation for up to 24 hours to verify legal status.
Restraints on pre-trial release also would be eased, as would requirements that those living in the country illegally pay for incarceration costs.
The bill has received mixed reviews from immigration and civil rights groups. Thousands of young people in the state illegally have received their licenses this year while getting federal work permits.
Even if the House passes it, the bill would still have to be heard by the Senate.
