U.S. Reps. Larry Bucshon (R-IN) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) want to ensure a faster, easier and secure way for Ukrainian refugees entering the United States to receive appropriate identification documents.
Currently, Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion are ineligible for REAL ID-compliant documents, including driver’s licenses and state IDs, in 31 states. For those who have been granted asylum by the U.S., this is problematic for those who want to secure and maintain employment in a variety of sectors that require a REAL ID-compliant license, according to information provided by the lawmakers.
“In the midst of Vladimir Putin’s unjustified, unprovoked invasion and occupation of Ukraine, millions of families and children have had to flee their homes. Alongside our allies, the United States has and continues to welcome tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees with open arms,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “While some Ukrainians have or may return to Ukraine, those remaining in the United States require appropriate identification documents in order to contribute and thrive within their new communities.”
Rep. Fitzpatrick joined Rep. Bucshon on May 11 as an original cosponsor of the bipartisan REAL ID Eligibility (RIDE) for Ukraine Act, H.R. 3259, which is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL) to grant REAL ID-eligibility to Ukrainian refugees.
“Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began over one year ago, more than 271,000 Ukrainians have been granted asylum in the United States,” Rep. Bucshon said on Monday. “With many of these individuals now calling Indiana home, it is critical that we pass the RIDE for Ukraine Act to ensure these individuals do not face arbitrary governmental barriers to obtaining jobs so that they can contribute to the Hoosier State.”
According to the lawmakers’ information, some states are working on an individual fix for Ukrainians, but a federal legislative solution is required to comprehensively address the issue.
“Over a year ago, many Ukrainians were faced with a choice — flee invasion or live under the constant threat of death. For those who have made the harrowing journey to the United States, life has not been easy,” Rep. Quigley said. “Not having a state-issued ID or driver’s license has only added to this struggle by creating a barrier for Ukrainians trying to find and maintain employment.”
H.R. 3259, he added, would help eliminate this barrier by providing them with REAL ID-eligibility “and ensuring they have the tools necessary to begin working, contributing to their communities, and supporting their families.”
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that if enacted, H.R. 3259 would not impact the federal budget over the next decade.