ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) Immigrants from around New York state have rallied at the state Capitol to call on legislators to authorize driver's licenses for residents who entered the country illegally.
Tuesday's event featured remarks from top lawmakers including Democratic Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, of the Bronx, who said his chamber would pass the legislation.
After Tuesday's rally, some supporters blocked access to a door to the state Senate. Fifteen were arrested after they refused to leave.
The measure remains unpopular with some Republican lawmakers and no vote has been scheduled in either the Democrat-controlled Legislature with less than five weeks left in the session.
Supporters argue that licenses would help immigrants with everyday transportation, a particular challenge for farm workers.
Twelve states already permit driver's licenses for immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally.
