Lawmaker wants harsher penalties for no-license drivers

Some Georgia lawmakers want stiffer penalties for those who drive without a license...including prison time for a fourth offense. The bill sponsored by Senator John Wiles of Kennesaw is causing a stir because some believe it's deliberately aimed at illegal immigrants.

Atlanta attorney Charles Kuck specializes in immigration issues. He said, “This bill is squarely aimed at people that the state legislature believes should leave the state which would be the folks who are presently illegal in the United States."

Jerry Gonzalez is with the Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials. He said the bill could also impact Georgia's economy and create an unflattering image for the state.

“That’s not what we want Georgia to be known for,” Gonzalez said. “It’s going to hurt us attracting foreign investment into our state. If it does move forward then Gov. Perdue needs to weigh that very seriously.”

Lawmakers in favor of the bill say it's a way to cut down on traffic deaths which often involve unlicensed drivers.