Illegal immigrants could get professional licenses under Washington State bill

OLYMPIA, Wash. (TND) — A bill in the Washington State Legislature could prevent state agencies from withholding professional certifications from individuals residing in the U.S. illegally.

SHB 1889 passed the House earlier this month and is now being mulled by the Senate. If passed, the bill would allow applicants for professional licenses and permits to provide a taxpayer identification number in place of a social security number.

"An individual who is not lawfully present in the United States is eligible for a professional license, commercial license, certificate, permit, or registration as allowed under Title 8 U.S.C. 14 Sec. 1621," the bill reads. “A state agency or regulatory authority shall not deny an application for a professional license, commercial license, certificate, permit, or registration solely on the basis of a person's immigration or citizenship status if the person has met all other qualifications."

The measure also removes the social security number requirement for several occupations including bail bond agent, optometrist and “money transmitter.”

State Rep. Amy Walen, D-Kirkland, a sponsor of the bill, said the measure could increase opportunities for individuals who have long lived in the state without citizenship.

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“We have a generation of people who have grown up in our state but can’t take advantage of some of the career opportunities that are available to other residents,” the representative said. “When we look at who should get a license, their training and qualifications should be a factor, not their immigration status.”

However, think tank Washington Policy Center feels the legislation could encourage illegal migrations to the state.

“HB 1899 would make it more enticing for citizens of other countries to make the dangerous journey across the southern border and enter the United States illegally,” the think tank wrote. “Lawmakers encouraging illegal immigration do a disservice to those who pursue a legal entry, either temporarily or permanently, into the United States.”

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