Currently there is a proposed state law: it would create two types of driver’s; licenses: one compliant with the federal Real ID Act, and one strictly for driving that would be issued to immigrants without legal status, certain senior citizens and others who lack documentation. The proposed bill would allow immigrants living in the country without legal status to acquire a state driver’s license. The data would be confidential and not shared outside the state agency. Meanwhile, more than half a million immigrants live in fear of being deported and separated from their families for driving a car in New Jersey.

Alvaro works with Cosecha New Jersey, which is a state chapter of a nationwide group which advocates for immigrants’ rights.