Headed to Gov. Walker: Legislature approves ban on local government IDs

MADISON — The Wisconsin Legislature has passed a bill that would stall Milwaukee's efforts to provide local photo IDs to the homeless, immigrants in the country illegally and others who have difficulty obtaining state IDs.

The Republican bill would prohibit towns and counties from spending money on or issuing photo IDs. It would also prohibit using city or village ID cards to vote or obtain public benefits, like food stamps.

Opponents call the bill anti-immigrant and say it's aimed at Milwaukee plans to issue local IDs to assist with everyday tasks like opening a bank account. The bill's supporters say it will reduce confusion and fraud.

The Senate passed the bill 19-13 on Tuesday, February 16th. The Assembly followed suit hours later, approving the measure 62-35. It goes next to Gov. Scott Walker.