The Texas House Calendars Committee is considering HB 582, which would discriminate against our refugee, asylee, and legal permanent resident (LPR) immigrant neighbors by requiring them to provide a full set of fingerprints when applying for a driver’s license. HB 582 does not make communities or cities in Texas any safer, and serves only to spread fear, hate, and xenophobia. Refugees and asylees are individuals who have been welcomed in the United States after fleeing violence and persecution. This legislation sends an unwelcoming message of exclusion to people looking for the chance to rebuild their lives.
We have an opportunity to stop this bill right now by telling Representative Todd Hunter, Calendars Committee Chair, and your State Representative to reject HB 582. This bill could set us on a path toward discrimination against our newest Texans. Refugees, asylees, and LPRs are permitted to work, obtain a social security card, and apply for state identifications or driver’s licenses, just like any other Texan. To obtain a driver’s license, all Texas residents (including refugees, asylees, and LPRs) already need to pass a driving test, provide proof of vehicle insurance, and provide thumbprints. HB 582 is a waste of resources, enshrines in law discriminatory practices that would open the state to costly litigation, and does not represent the welcoming communities for newcomers across Texas.
Take Action TODAY: Tell Rep. Todd Hunter & Your Representative to Stop HB 582!
Call Rep. Todd Hunter (Corpus Christi) at (512) 463-0672 and then call your Representative!
Here’s what you can say: “I’m (name) from (city, county, or congregation) and I’m calling to ask the Representative to oppose HB 582 and any other anti-refugee or anti-immigrant proposals. HB 582 discriminates against refugees, asylees, and legal permanent residents. Refugees and asylees have fled violence and persecution, and this bill serves only to spread fear, hate, and xenophobia. (As a person of faith,) I expect the Representative to take a stand against policies of discrimination against our refugee, asylee, and immigrant neighbors. That’s why I’m calling today, to ask you to REJECT HB 582.”
Thank you for taking action at this critical time!
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