City Council committee votes unanimously to use public library cards as photo ID cards for immigrant

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The plan would expand the use of City Library cards to function as photo ID cards for anyone who can prove residency. They could also be used as ATM cards.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa originated the plan to help those who don't have access to traditional banking.

Immigration rights activists say the card would help integrate immigrants into the life of the city and also help those who have been gouged by check-cashing companies.

But opponents say it will primarily benefit undocumented immigrants. Ira Mehlman, of the Federation for American Immigration Reform, said, "Even if the city officials don't necessarily agree with U.S. immigration policy, it should not be the place of a city government to impede federal immigration enforcement and facilitate people living in the country illegally."