In Wichita, Kansas, the intersecting challenges of homelessness and mental health care have prompted officials in Sedgwick County to collaborate with faith leaders in the community to seek solutions. One proposed solution gaining traction is the introduction of a local identification (ID) program.

Addressing Barriers to Access

At a recent Nehemiah assembly, the Justice Together Homelessness Committee posed a crucial question to city leaders: How can barriers to access for underserved members of the Wichita community be dismantled? Reverend Lory Mills, co-chair of the Justice Together Homeless Committee and a clergy member at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, emphasized the necessity of broader ID access, stating, “We take having a photo ID for granted, but when you don’t have one, you run into problems with so many things.”

The Proposal: Municipal ID

The proposed municipal ID would have fewer requirements for issuance compared to state-issued IDs, potentially granting access to city services for those currently without official identification. Mills advocates for a municipal ID covering all of Sedgwick County, offering a lower barrier to access than state IDs.

Legal Hurdles and Collaboration

However, legislative hurdles exist. Two years ago, state legislators passed a law prohibiting municipalities from creating local forms of identification. Sedgwick County Commissioner Ryan Baty emphasizes the need for collaboration with state partners to address this barrier, stating, “We’ve gotta work with our state partners to say ‘Hey, there’s a legitimate concern, a legitimate barrier to access, and how do we create laws and how do we create statutes that can help us overcome that.”

Path Forward and Considerations

Despite challenges, supporters are optimistic about the potential of municipal IDs to address local needs. Wichita Mayor Lily Wu acknowledges the complexities involved, stating, “It will take time to really figure out what this municipal card will look like as well as talking with council members and commissioners about how this can be something that all of us can agree on.”

Conclusion: Promising Steps Towards Equity

As Wichita grapples with issues of homelessness and mental health care, the exploration of a municipal ID program represents a proactive step towards addressing systemic barriers to access. Collaborative efforts between community leaders, faith organizations, and local officials signal a commitment to fostering inclusivity and equity within the city. By prioritizing the needs of marginalized populations, Wichita endeavors to create a more resilient and compassionate community for all its residents.

Source: KWCH 2024

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