Rhode Island

• Driver’s License:

Currently, undocumented immigrants are unable to obtain a driver’s license in this state. No bill is currently being debated regarding this matter. Please visit the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles website for more information on how to obtain a driver’s license.

• In-State Tuition:

SB 425 – Sponsored by Senators Pichardo, Metts, C. Levesque and Perry

HB 5308 – Sponsored by Representatives Diaz, Slater and Almeida

The above bills are currently pending. They would allow undocumented immigrants residing in Rhode Island and who meet certain criteria, to pay tuition and fees at public higher educational institutions that are no greater than the tuition and fees paid by Rhode Island residents.

• Education:

Scholarships: Visit MALDEF for a list of scholarships that do not require proof of citizenship, legal residency, or a social security number. Please contact your local organizations for more information.

The Roothbert Fund, Inc Scholarship does not ask for proof of citizenship.

• Senators:

Reed, Jack – D

Position on Immigration:

“Senator Reed has supported legislation to help reduce illegal immigration across our borders, deter employers from hiring those who come here illegally, and provide a path to legalization that helps long-time undocumented workers in this country without penalizing those who have come here legally.” Source

“Senator Reed supported the Kennedy-McCain immigration reform proposal to overhaul America’s immigration laws. This realistic and comprehensive approach would allow families who have been in the United States for years, who obey the law, and who work hard, to come out of the shadows and have a chance to get on the path to citizenship while securing our borders.” Source

Position on the DREAM Act: Voted “Yes” to Proceed on October 24, 2007

Whitehouse, Sheldon – D

Position on Immigration:

“I believe we need comprehensive immigration reform that secures our borders, steps up enforcement against employers who recruit and hire illegal immigrants, and crafts a sensible, practical solution for the 12 million undocumented people now in this country,” Source

Position on the DREAM Act: Voted “Yes” to Proceed on October 24, 2007

• U.S. Representatives:

Kennedy, Patrick – D

Langevin, Jim – D

• Relevant Immigration Studies for the State:

• Immigration Organizations:

International Institute of Rhode Island