OMAHA, Neb., April 20 2015 – The Greater Omaha Chamber, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry support LB623.
Nebraska is currently the only state that does not allow DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) youth to qualify for Nebraska driver’s licenses. The Chamber coalition believes that the current situation presents an obstacle both to individual and state economic growth.
“LB623 would allow these young Nebraskans to contribute their talents more fully to our communities and to the state’s economy. By passing LB623, Nebraska can ensure these young people have the ability to contribute to society at large and the state’s economy by providing them the opportunity to obtain a driver’s license,” said Lincoln Chamber Chairwoman Angie Muhleisen.
“It is crucial that Nebraska is known as a welcoming and open place to do business. In Greater Omaha and throughout our state, we know that due to our low rate of unemployment, the search is constantly on for workers, especially those who are new to the workforce. LB623 provides a common sense solution and another tool to assist our small businesses in filling their existing talent needs,” Greater Omaha Chamber Chairman Clark Lauritzen said.
“The legislation makes sense from public safety, economic and legal perspectives,” said Barry Kennedy, President, Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
To be eligible for federal deferred action status, a person must:
- Have been under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012
- Have arrived in the US before turning 16
- Have been in the US continuously since June 15, 2007
- Have no lawful status as of June 15, 2012
- Be in school, have graduated from high school or obtained a GED, or have been honorably discharged from the armed forces
- Have not been convicted of a felony, a “significant” misdemeanor, or three other misdemeanors