A proposed bill in Florida would require driver’s licenses issued to non-citizens to display an “N-C” designation.
The measure, introduced by Rep. Berny Jacques, focuses on voter registration and identification requirements. If passed, it would mandate that all newly issued or reissued driver’s licenses and state IDs include the marking for non-citizens.
Under current law, non-citizens may obtain a Florida driver’s license if they provide proof of identity, legal residency, and pass the required tests. However, those licenses cannot be used to vote.
Supporters of the proposal argue that adding the “N-C” mark would help reduce voter fraud. Critics, however, say the change could lead to discrimination.
“I don’t like the idea like it just sort of putting like a stamp, or sort of like discrimination, if you want to call it, like writing that on your driver’s license,” said Fort Myers resident Roberto Cavalieri. “It’s the same thing, like your religion. Would you like your religion written on it? Or your political affiliation?”
Another Fort Myers resident, Linda Balogh, said she supports the idea, primarily because of concerns about voter fraud.
“I think it is a good idea, probably mainly voter fraud,” Balogh said.
John Mariner, also from Fort Myers, said the proposal makes sense only in the context of voting.
“I think for voter reasons, voter registration reasons, it makes sense,” Mariner said. “If it’s anything other than that, I don’t see any reason for it. If somebody’s here legally, goes through the process and all that, there doesn’t need to be a separation or something that distinguishes them from somebody else.”
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