Conn. lawmakers hold hearing on immigrant licenses

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (AP) — More than 2,000 people packed a public hearing in New Haven on whether illegal immigrants should be allowed to obtain Connecticut drivers' licenses.

Most of the crowd at the hearing before the legislature's Transportation Committee on Monday night supported the proposal. Backers of the bill say it would make the roads safer by requiring law-abiding immigrants to pass a road test and get insurance, like all license applicants have to do.

The crowd filled the auditorium at Wilbur Cross High School and overflowed into the cafeteria and gymnasium.

Lawmakers say there are an estimated 120,000 undocumented immigrants in Connecticut.

Officials say the bill allowing licenses for illegal immigrants is similar to one passed in Illinois. New Mexico and Washington also have similar laws.