The city took a major step Thursday to launch the largest municipal-ID program in the country when the City Council voted 43-3 to authorize the local identification cards.
Anyone would be eligible to get one, but the program is clearly aimed at the estimated 500,000 undocumented residents.
“The municipal ID is more than just a card — it provides New Yorkers who are currently living in the shadows with dignity and peace of mind,” said Mayor De Blasio.
The program will cost $8.4 million the first year and $5.6 million in succeeding years.
It is expected to start at the end of this year or in early 2015.