Mayor Jones Signs BB 137, Establishing the Gateway Card Program for St. Louis Residents

Today, Mayor Tishaura O. Jones took a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible community by signing BB 137, which establishes the Municipal Identification Card Program, known as the Gateway Card. This program will provide all residents with free government-issued photo identification, making it easier for them to access essential services and opportunities.

In a statement, Mayor Jones emphasized the impact of the Gateway Card on families and seniors, stating that it will make it easier for them to utilize resources such as libraries, recreation centers, and senior centers, as well as access healthcare and support programs. She also highlighted the program’s potential to help St. Louisans in both big and small ways.

According to statistics, millions of Americans, including thousands of St. Louis residents, do not have a government-issued photo ID. This can create barriers to obtaining housing, employment, and even basic services like opening a bank account or doing business with the city. Sponsored by 6th Ward Alderwoman Daniela Velázquez and unanimously passed by the Board of Aldermen, BB 137 will provide residents with an ID card that unlocks these doors of opportunity.

Alderwoman Velázquez expressed her excitement for the Gateway Card, stating that it will help those who need it most to fully participate in the community. She also highlighted the collaborative effort between advocates and the city in creating this program, emphasizing St. Louis’ commitment to being a welcoming city for all.

The Gateway Card program will be administered by the office of Treasurer Adam Layne, who now has 180 days to develop the program. This means that St. Louisans can expect to have access to Gateway Cards by this summer. Treasurer Layne emphasized the importance of ensuring accessibility and upward mobility for all residents, stating that the municipal IDs are a step forward in making city services more efficient and inclusive. He also expressed appreciation for businesses that have already committed to accepting the new IDs.

To obtain a Gateway Card, residents will need to provide proof of identity and residency in the City of St. Louis. A variety of documentation can be used for this purpose, including a birth certificate, social security card, or written verification from domestic violence shelters or City-funded homeless shelters.

The City of St. Louis joins dozens of other cities across the country in implementing a municipal ID program, including New York City, Little Rock, and Kansas City. This program is a testament to the city’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its community and creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all. 

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