MA Gov. rejects registration proposal

BOSTON, Mass. (AP) - Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick has vetoed a proposal that would require anyone seeking to register a car in Massachusetts to provide proof of legal U.S. residency.

Patrick rejected the measure Friday, calling the proposal "flawed."

The governor said the bill seems to be aimed at using the Registry of Motor Vehicles as an agent to identify undocumented individuals.

Patrick had proposed an amended version of the legislation, due to concerns over the Legislature's initial proposal. His amendment would require vehicle owners to prove state residency.

The residency language was part of a broader measure that would've allowed motor vehicle registration applicants to identify themselves with a driver's license, identification card or Social Security number. It also would've granted exemptions for out-of-state college students, military personnel and others.