Nevada Senate Republicans continue Hispanic-friendly moves

First it was Gov. Brian Sandoval moving to the middle on immigration issues.

And now, just a few moments ago, the Senate Republicans, apparently kicking off their 2014 effort to retake the upper house (OK, I'm cynical), issued this release:

The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles, with the support of Governor Brian Sandoval, announced this week that its policy would be to honor the employment authorization card granted to successful applicants under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Deferred Action program. 

Senate Minority Leader Michael Roberson, R-Henderson, said he supports the DMV policy and hopes those eligible will take advantage of this opportunity. “These young men and women are living, working and attending school here in Nevada, and are doing everything in their power to improve their lives and the lives of their families,” stated Roberson. “A driver’s license from the State of Nevada will aid in their ability to commute to and from work and school; will afford a sense of self-sufficiency; and will provide greater opportunities for thousands of Nevada families."

Deferred Action, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a directive from the secretary of the DHS that grants temporary permission to stay in the U.S. to certain undocumented youth. Individuals who receive deferred action may apply for and obtain employment authorization. It is estimated that more than 20,000 young immigrants could benefit from this program in Nevada.

Senator Ben Kieckhefer, R-Reno, also applauded the policy. "This DMV policy allowing young immigrants living in our communities to obtain driver's licenses will benefit not only the young people and families eligible for deferred action, but will also help strengthen Nevada's education system and our economy at large." 

Senator Joe Hardy, R-Boulder City, noted the safety aspects of the policy. "In order to secure a driver's license, an individual must obtain the proper knowledge and skill level to pass a test to ensure they can safely drive on the streets," noted Hardy. "This policy will not only provide greater opportunity for so many young people in Nevada, it will also make our streets safer by ensuring training for those who may otherwise be driving without a license or adequate preparation."

A story by the Sun's David McGrath Schwartz started it all.

This comes a few weeks after Roberson proposed infusing money in the early grades to help English Language Learner students.

I am verklempt. If Sandoval is not careful, Roberson might take him on in a primary in 2014.