Immigration (Driver Licenses & IDs)

This bill allows Minnesota driver's license and ID card applicants to declare their citizenship or immigration status without proving it to the state. It creates "noncompliant" licenses (not meeting federal REAL ID standards) that must be marked "not for federal identification," "not for voting," and "not for benefits." These licenses cannot be used for federal purposes or state benefits, and applicants who don't demonstrate U.S. citizenship or lawful presence can still obtain them. The bill directly affects noncitizen residents applying for licenses in Minnesota who cannot or choose not to provide federal immigration documentation.

This bill prohibits Minnesota local governments from enacting policies that restrict cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. It specifically bans cities or counties from creating "noncooperation" ordinances that would prevent law enforcement from sharing immigration status information with federal agencies or reporting undocumented individuals arrested for violent crimes. County attorneys must report such arrests to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), even if no charges are filed. The law applies to all government entities and public employees, requiring them to share immigration data for federal enforcement purposes. It takes effect immediately upon final enactment.