NEWARK, N.J. (AP) - Newark has launched a municipal identification card program for most city residents, including those who are living in the country illegally.
NJ.com (https://bit.ly/1M58YWu) reports that dozens of residents came out Saturday to apply for the cards, which will be available to all Newark residents 14 and older. The program was approved earlier this year.
Advocates have said the cards will provide access to vital city services and be especially useful for people they described as “marginalized in the community,” such as those with disabilities, the homeless and people with criminal records.
This is believed to be the first time that a municipality in New Jersey has had its own identification card program.
To obtain the card, residents must show other forms of identification and residency, which could include utility bills, payment stubs or passports.
Officials say the cards will serve as proof of identity and residency, regardless of immigration status. They also will allow access to the city’s cultural institutions and schools and help those who don’t have access to other forms of identification to interact with city agencies, local authorities and open bank accounts.
North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr. said the latter benefit could make immigrants less attractive robbery targets, because they will no longer have to carry a lot of cash with them.
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Information from: NJ.com, https://www.nj.com
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