Federal Judge Upholds New York's Green Light Law, Rejecting Trump Administration's Challenge

A federal judge upheld New York's "Green Light Law," allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses, rejecting the Trump administration's February lawsuit to block the statute.

Judge Anne M. Nardacci ruled the Trump administration failed to prove the law violates federal authority or interferes with immigration enforcement, citing the U.S. Constitution's Supremacy Clause.

The Green Light Law ensures drivers without licenses undergo testing, training, and obtain insurance. State officials assert it enhances road safety and broadens access to auto insurance.

The Justice Department claimed the law obstructs federal immigration enforcement by mandating notification to license holders when federal agencies request their information, a claim the court rejected.

New York can continue issuing standard driver's licenses. The Justice Department has not decided on an appeal, continuing federal litigation over state and federal immigration authority.