At a glance
• Would allow residents access to services and benefits, such as obtaining library cards and opening bank accounts.
• Would help interaction between police and residents, supporters say
• Could be issued to undocumented and homeless residents.
• Now issued in cities such as New York, Los Angeles and New Haven, Conn.
SOUTH BEND — The city is considering creating a municipal identification card for residents, including undocumented or homeless residents, following in the footsteps of cities such as New York and Los Angeles.
The photo ID cards would connect South Bend residents to services, programs and benefits for which they qualify, regardless of immigration status. The cards would allow residents, for example, to obtain library cards and open bank accounts.
They also would help residents establish identity when interacting with law enforcement, improving public safety and preventing unnecessary detention, supporters say.
“The reason why we really need to get a city ID is because it will help us to get insurance, like car insurance … and to get medication when we go to the store,” said Lilia Reyna, a native of Mexico.
“It is for safety issues as well,” Reyna said. “If we see something wrong on the street and call the police, we need to have an ID.”
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