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Detroit Introduces City ID Card To Ease Access To Services

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - Detroit has begun offering a municipal identification card expected to improve access to city services and other resources for residents who lack state-issued IDs or driver's licenses.

Mayor Mike Duggan and a coalition of city leaders introduced the new Detroit ID on Wednesday. The city says it will help thousands of Detroiters gain access to important city services and shopping and dining discounts and interact with Detroit police, financial institutions and cultural organizations.

It will be recognized by many city departments and agencies as a valid form of identification at city departments, but will not replace a driver's license or state ID.

Detroit's police Chief James Craig said the card will allow people to open bank accounts, sign kids up for programs and more.

The card is available to all city residents ages 14 or older, regardless of immigration or housing or homeless status, criminal record, or gender identification. It resembles does resemble a driver's license with a photo, address and even a heart symbol that states you're an organ donor.

Craig believe the card will also help police with community relations.

"When you talk about the immigrant community, returning citizens, having the ability to have ID, there's a greater likelihood they're going to call us," Craig said. "And when you talk about reducing violent crime in the city of Detroit — certainly our work continues — but we can't do it without everyone in the city."

There is a small fee. Anyone interested can apply on the city's website. [Get complete information HERE].

The city hopes 35,000 people sign up over the next two years.

Meanwhile, in Kalamazoo County, Commissioner Larry Provancher on Tuesday proposed the adoption of a county ID card there.

TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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