CHEYENNE, Wyo. — On Friday, February 28, 2025, Governor Mark Gordon took significant steps to tighten regulations surrounding driver’s licenses for noncitizens. He allowed House Bill 116, known as "Driver’s Licenses-Unauthorized Alien Restrictions," to become law without his signature, marking it as one of the most stringent laws governing undocumented immigrants' driving privileges. At the same time, Gordon also signed Senate File 33, which introduces new identification standards for noncitizens.
Senate File 33 mandates clear designation on driver’s licenses issued to non-U.S. citizens by stating "Not U.S. citizen." This law, which references Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, aims to balance the enforcement of immigration law with civil rights protections. This new statute will apply to licenses and identification cards issued starting January 1, 2026, necessitating significant adaptation for law enforcement and residents alike.
House Bill 116 takes it a step farther by invaliding any driver’s licenses or driving operation privilege cards issued by other states to undocumented immigrants, with this rule set to take effect on July 1, 2025. Gordon expressed the thoughtfulness behind these decisions, emphasizing, "I carefully considered the impacts of this legislation" on the safety of Wyoming’s roadways as well as the state’s ability to cooperate effectively on law enforcement matters with other jurisdictions.
Wyoming's involvement with the Non-Resident Violators Compact (NRVC) is particularly concerning to Gordon. This compact, which comprises 44 other states and Washington D.C., allows for the fair enforcement of traffic violations across state lines. He noted, “The compact is reciprocal, enabling Wyoming and other states to address violations on the driver’s record.” Gordon expressed hope these new regulations would not jeopardize Wyoming's standing within the NRVC due to the invalidation of other states' credentials.
With his signing of these laws, the Governor highlighted the role of law enforcement, indicating, "Law enforcement officers should assist in illegal presence operations but not take lead..." This implies a nuanced approach, urging officers to focus on safety without compromising civil liberties. Thereby, it conveys the tension between maintaining public order and protecting individual rights.
Meanwhile, on February 25, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the Alien Registration Requirement, compelling all noncitizens within the United States to register officially. This novel initiative broadens the previous scope of the term 'registration' which historically applied primarily to applying for permanent residency.
The new requirement includes mandatory registration for individuals on temporary states such as tourist, student, and work visas, signaling stepped-up immigration policy enforcement. Under these regulations, parents between ages of 18 and 55 must register on behalf of minor children under 14. Children who turn 14 must now re-register within 30 days of their birthdays to undergo fingerprinting, ensuring compliance with newfound registration obligations.
The announcement of the Alien Registration Requirement also features strict penalties for noncompliance, including criminal and civil repercussions which could lead to misdemeanor prosecution and monetary fines. The DHS has expressed intent to prioritize enforcement across all noncitizen categories, implying far-reaching responsibilities for residents to maintain valid documentation.
It is worth noting the historical significance of legal regulations previously imposed but often remained unenforced. The emphasis not just on illegal immigrants but all noncitizens raises complex legal questions. Under existing laws, failure to update registration and comply with changes of address can result in fines and even jail time, compounding existing fears among permanent residents and visa holders alike.
Governor Gordon's recent actions are reflective of the broader tensions and challenges illuminated by nationwide immigration discussions. From stricter identification requirements to obligatory registration regulations, these legislative actions manifest the state's response to national concerns surrounding immigration policy. The interplay of local law enforcement, national immigration enforcement, and civil rights protections will undoubtedly shape the lives of many residents as Wyoming navigates these turbulent waters.
These developments serve as pivotal moments for Wyoming, positioning the state at the intersection of enforcement and civil rights as lawmakers confront the realities of immigration issues. How the NRVC and future collaborations between states evolve under such laws will be closely observed by Wyoming residents and immigrants alike.