NYC Simplifies City ID Access for Migrants

New York City has made it easier for immigrants to obtain city residency identification cards. This move, backed by Mayor Eric Adams and approved by the City Council, expands the acceptable forms of ID to 23 additional types. This includes documents like expired driver's licenses and documents from ICE or the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The aim is to improve access to healthcare, housing, and other essential services.

<img src="https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2023/10/1200/675/GettyImages-1697194560.jpg?ve=1&tl=1" alt="Migrants in NYC">

Impact and Controversy

The IDNYC card program, initially launched in 2015, already benefits nearly 1.7 million New Yorkers. The changes are not without controversy, however. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis criticized the move, calling it a "terrible idea" that could incentivize illegal immigration and lack proper vetting procedures.

<img src="https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/03/1200/675/GettyImages-2068297250-scaled-e1710586249422.jpg?ve=1&tl=1" alt="Migrants New York City">

The city maintains that thorough background checks are conducted for criminal issues. Mayor Adams, in an op-ed, emphasized the city's commitment to supporting immigrants and highlighted efforts to assist asylum seekers, including job placement and language courses.

The Closing of the Roosevelt Hotel Shelter

The Roosevelt Hotel, a temporary migrant shelter, will close in June 2024. It housed over 173,000 migrants since May 2023. The city attributes the closure to progress made in assisting migrants to find self-sufficiency and move on to their preferred destinations.

<img src="https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/09/1200/675/NYC-Mayor-Adams-Indicdment_07.jpg?ve=1&tl=1" alt="New York City Mayor Adams addresses the media">

Mayor Adams stated that 81% of migrants who sought services have advanced towards self-sufficiency, with 84% of adults receiving or applying for work authorization. The city also purchased over 53,000 tickets to help migrants reach their chosen destinations, minimizing long-term costs for taxpayers.