Homepage / Connecticut News
E-Mail News Alerts
Get breaking news and daily headlines.
Browse all e-mail newsletters
Related To Story

New Haven Approves Immigrant ID Cards

Cards Designed For Undocumented Immigrants

POSTED: 10:32 am EDT June 5, 2007

New Haven officials overwhelmingly approved on Monday night a plan to issue identification cards to undocumented immigrants.

The 25-1 vote spearheads the first of its kind identification card in the nation. Channel 3 Eyewitness News reporter Erika Arias reported the cards will become available to residents next month.

Special Section: Immigration Latest Video, Photos, Links

Arias reported the decision came amid a shouting match debate inside and outside City Hall from residents on both sides of the issue.

"I don't want them to take over our country and that exactly what they're doing," said Ted Pechinski, of Branford.

"New Haven is an immigrant community and we support immigrants here," said Rebecca Lewis, of New Haven.

New Haven Alderwoman Arlene Depino, R-District 18, was the only member to vote no.

"We will overburden the already overburdened New Haven taxpayer. So, I was looking at it from a financial aspect," she said.

Officials said the Elm City Resident Cards program will provide official identification from the city to people who otherwise might not have a way to prove who they are.

Kica Matos, administrator of the city's Community Services Department, spearheaded the program three years ago.

"This is never going to cost taxpayers a dime. It will always be our responsibility to generate funds from outside the city to keep this going," Matos said.

Matos said the cards will also improve public safety because without identification to open bank accounts, immigrants have become victims of robbery, assault and even murder.

"Immigrants will hopefully now be able to use card to open bank accounts and deposit money in the banks," Matos said.

The cards will provide residents access to places like libraries and public parks. The city said holograms on the cards will help to prevent duplication and the making of fake identification cards.

A private foundation has provided $250,000 to start program and the cards will cost $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Click here to e-mail news tips to Eyewitness News, or dial: 860-244-1700.
Refresh WFSB.com often and Channel 3 Eyewitness News for the latest news updates.

Advertise On WFSB

Advertise with WFSB-TV-DT and WFSB.com
Reach your best potential customers by advertising on the No. 1-rated television station in the Hartford/New Haven market. More


Links We Like

Sponsored Content
Employers generally have options when it comes to hiring. Makes sure you present yourself as professionally as possible, or else. More

You can pick your friends, but not your family -- or your neighbors. Here's what you need to know about how to deal with yours. More

Are you often tired or rushed in the morning? Give your morning habits a makeover, and start the day feeling positive and energetic instead. More

Do you want the look of a quality paint job without the hassle of having to redo it over and over? Spray on siding could be the answer. More

Smart Savings

Do you catch yourself counting every penny these days? Find money-saving ideas big and small in our Smart Savings guide. More


Sponsored Links

Consumer Info



Sponsored Content Provided by ARA

CBS Shows Online