Lawmakers try to undo DPS license rules

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - A group of Democratic legislators joined with Texas residents who have had trouble getting drivers' licenses under new Department of Public Safety rules to try and undo a state policy they said harms citizens and noncitizens.

Rep. Ruth Jones McClendon of San Antonio said Monday DPS created new identification rules last fall for license applicants without any direction from the Legislature. She said the rules require even lawful U.S. residents to show immigration documentation that does not expire within six months. She has filed legislation to stop that policy.

The American Civil Liberties Union and immigrant rights groups oppose the new DPS rules. Republican Gov. Rick Perry has defended the policy as necessary for public safety.