Assigning a driver's license to all residents?

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Some Indiana lawmakers are hoping to provide driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants. But not everyone in the community agrees.

We talked to local residents regarding the possibility of all immigrants receiving driver’s licenses.   

Some think it was a good idea for them to be able to get licenses. But others think it’s a mistake.   

“If they’re illegal to begin with, I don’t see what the point is,” said Jim.

“They come here and take our jobs away, why give them more rights?” said Mike.

Both residents requested not to reveal their identities.

Indiana's Budget Director calculates illegal immigrants have cost Indiana over $130 million.   

It's estimated there are up to 300,000 immigrants in the state.   

And now, some lawmakers are hoping to allow undocumented immigrants to get a license to drive. 

In recent years, the GOP pushed through tough measures against immigrants who work in Ind. and their employers.  

In 2011, Indiana legislature adopted a law to deny illegal immigrants in-state tuition rates to attend college.   

Some lawmakers argue it's an issue of public safety not to grant licenses to immigrants.   

They say we're better off knowing who is on the road.  

Indiana State Police Sergeant Joe Watts said they trust their legislators to make a good decision.

“First of all, the Indiana State Police Department does not offer an official opinion on what laws should be law and what laws should not be law. What we do is, we listen to or legislators. The legislators are the voice of the people and for the people. And if they enact a certain instance into law, we will enforce that,” said Sgt. Watts.   

But for now, the community is still divided on what would be best for America.