Virginia Gov. Mark Warner has agreed to sign legislation restricting illegal aliens from obtaining driver's licenses, frustrating immigrants in Northern Virginia.
Supporters of the law say it is illogical to grant licenses to people who are in the country illegally in the first place, and suggest it will improve homeland security, pointing out that most of the Sept. 11 terrorists obtained identification cards that allowed them to move freely through the country.
Immigration advocates say denying licenses to illegals could result in civil rights violations. They argue that fear and emotion are creating a hostile environment for people coming to the U.S.
Twenty-seven other states have already passed laws denying licenses for illegals. The Virginia General Assembly approved the bill earlier this year.
Whether it increases security is questionable, particularly as right across the Potomac River, lawmakers are proposing a bill backed by Latino advocates that would allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver's licenses.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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