SPRINGFIELD – Illinois moved a step closer Tuesday to becoming the next state to allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses after House lawmakers approved a bill requiring proof of state residency and a photograph.

The House voted, 65-46, in favor of the plan, which now goes to Gov. Pat Quinn. Quinn has said he will sign the measure.

Supporters, including a bipartisan coalition with former Republican Gov. Jim Edgar and Democratic Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, said allowing Illinois’ estimated 250,000 illegal immigrants of driving age to get licenses is important for safety.