House Republican Press Release

June 6, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Candelora Introduces Measure Prohibiting Proposed New Haven ID Cards

HARTFORD – In response to passage this week of a measure by the New Haven Board of Aldermen creating a program of municipal identification cards with which the city’s estimated 15,000 illegal immigrants would be able to use to secure social services and open bank accounts, Representative Vincent Candelora (R-North Branford) today introduced a measure on the floor of the State House of Representatives prohibiting the issuance of such a municipal card.  The measure was introduced as an amendment to House Bill 7434.

Under the provisions of the measure, no municipality would be allowed to adopt an ordinance issuing identification cards to undocumented illegal immigrant for any purpose.  

“The City of New Haven has exceeded its authority and may have illegally passed a measure that countermands federal law,” said Candelora.  “While that isn’t for us to resolve, it is perfectly reasonable for the state to prohibit the issuance of these cards, to be certain that their use does not lead to things like identity theft or voter fraud.  This proposal helps ensure that.”

By bringing out the amendment, Democratic leaders of the House passed the bill temporarily in an attempt to avoid a vote on the measure.  Republicans objected, and Democrats averted debate and a vote on the measure on a party-line vote of 107-44.

Candelora noted that he hoped state and federal authorities would examine the New Haven ID card proposal, to be certain it complied with state and federal law, and did not facilitate the breaking of the law.

“Immigration laws lie with the federal government.  The City of New Haven has made this a state issue.  The City cannot be permitted to develop a foreign policy or immigration policy. The City receives millions of dollars from the State and we have an obligation to account for how and on whom the money is spent.” He added.  “It’s unfortunate that the House Democrats have abdicated their responsibility by refusing to take up the matter on behalf of the citizens of the State of Connecticut.”

The 2007 session of the General Assembly concludes tonight at midnight.