The Republican Assembly members will be bringing this to the floor as hostile legislation forcing an up or down vote. We will see who is on the side of the people and who is not. Waiting for roll call on the vote with baited breath.

Senate Minority Leader Malcolm Smith said he and most of his Democratic caucus support the governor’s plan.

Most of the Democrat Senators agree with the Governor? I am looking forward to the roll call vote on this one.

Senate GOP strikes back at Spitzer’s illegal immigrant plan — Newsday.com

ALBANY, N.Y. - The Senate’s Republican majority moved Monday to try to block Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s plan to make it easier for illegal immigrants to receive driver’s licenses.

It’s part of an uncertain special session that could include action on pay raises for legislators and judges and tax breaks despite a projected deficit.

The Senate’s license bill would require applicants for a driver’s license to be in the country legally. Spitzer’s plan will end that requirement in December, by no longer requiring a Social Security number to get or renew a license.

Spitzer has said he can start the new policy in December without the Legislature’s approval.

“We will change those rules,” Spitzer said. “If somebody will challenge it, we’ll see what the courts will do.” He said he believes his administration is within its legal authority in changing the rules.

“This governor is so ill advised, there’s an arrogance to it that is hard to understand,” said Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno.

The Assembly’s Democratic majority has supported the Democratic governor’s plan, although some Democrats may side with the opposed Republican minority. The Senate’s measure, if passed as expected in that chamber, wouldn’t become law without the Assembly’s support.

Bruno said the attempt to change the policy on illegal immigrants was unconstitutional, contradicted the REAL ID Act and opposed the guidelines provided by the 911 commission.

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