An Arkansas House committee has advanced a bill that would limit the ability of cities to issue identification cards to residents without legal immigration status. House Bill 1789, sponsored by Rep. Rebecca Burkes, would prohibit local governments from issuing municipal ID cards to individuals without proof of lawful presence in the United States. Supporters of municipal IDs argue that they provide access to city services and make communities safer.
Rep. Ashley Hudson pushed back against the bill, stating that municipal IDs are primarily used by vulnerable populations such as people experiencing homelessness or living in shelters. Rep. Tippi McCullough questioned the necessity of the bill, asking for data to support Burkes’ claims about the impact of municipal IDs on illegal immigration and crime. Maricella Garcia of Arkansas Advocates for Children & Families refuted Burkes’ assertions about sanctuary cities, pointing out that there are no sanctuary cities in Arkansas.
Mireya Reith of Arkansas United also spoke against HB1789, highlighting the benefits of municipal IDs in reducing reliance on cash and improving community safety. Despite no one speaking in support of the bill, it passed on a voice vote and will now move to the full House of Representatives. Critics of the bill argue that it will harm vulnerable populations and make cities less safe. The debate over the bill continues as advocates for municipal IDs stress their importance in providing essential services to marginalized communities.
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