Tuesday, May 24, 5:30pm, this on-line event requires advance registration

One ID Columbus will be holding a virtual event about municipal ID programs across the country on Tuesday, May 24, at 5:30pm, via Zoom. To register for this event, visit oneidcolumbus.org and click on the Register Here link or just click on this link to be automatically directed to the registration page!

What is One ID Columbus?

One ID Columbus is a coalition of labor unions, worker organizations, LGBTQIA advocates, social service organizations, faith-based groups, and advocates for the homeless. We seek a municipal ID program that is developed and implemented by the City of Columbus. The program is to be funded and administered by the City of Columbus.

Additional organizations involved with the coalition

• BREAD [Building Responsibility, Equality And Dignity] Organization

• Central Ohio Worker Center

• SEIU [Service Employees International Union] Local 1

• National Church Residences

• Foundations for Families

• Central Ohio Labor Council

• The Homeless Coalition

• Equality Ohio

What is a municipal ID?

A municipal ID is an identification card issued by a municipality, such as a city, rather than a state or federal government. The ID would be targeted towards victims of domestic violence, the homeless, immigrants, and those who are re-entering society from prison/jail.

What are the potential benefits of having a municipal ID card?

The card can be used to gain access to municipal buildings that require ID, such as city government offices, public schools attended by one’s children, and to access city identification.

Having an ID that law enforcement officers accept is important because in instances of minor infractions, police can then merely issue a summons, rather than driving the person to the ID bureau, police station, or jail.

The cards can also be used to open a bank account at certain financial institutions and receive discounts at local businesses and cultural institutions. Existing municipal ID cards provide residents with the convenience of consolidating several common functions into a single card. In some cities, they replace or substitute for library cards and public transit discount cards.

How much would the card cost?

In some cities, there is a small cost of $10-$15. In other cities, the card is currently free, in New York City for example.

In what instances would the ID not be accepted?

The ID would be limited to use in situations under the jurisdiction of the municipality. A municipal ID card would not provide proof of identity to obtain a driver’s license. The card could not be used as proof of age to purchase alcohol or tobacco products. The card would not authorize cardholders to receive public assistance benefits or to board a commercial airline flight. It would not affect immigration status or provide work authorization.

Communities with successful municipal ID programs

Such cities include New York City; Newark, New Jersey; San Francisco and Oakland, California; New Haven, Connecticut; Johnson County, Iowa; Detroit, Michigan; and many others.

Register today and help us make Columbus more equitable!

This event will be a virtual summit on ID programs across the United States. Community leaders and the general public are invited to attend this event to learn how local ID programs work in communities across the country and what a municipal ID for Columbus could look like.

Register online at oneidcolumbus.org or call 614-721-5523.

RSVP for this event by using this link.

Hosted by One ID Columbus.