Senator David Vitter’s amendment to prevent illegal aliens from applying for credit cards was defeated during a roll call vote on Wednesday, 28-65. The amendment would have required credit card applicants to show a valid social security card along with an identification that is compliant with REAL ID.
If passed, the amendment would have:
Granted rule making authority to the Federal Reserve to set forth minimum standards for credit card issuers to establish a consumer’s identity to prevent illegal aliens and terrorists from obtaining credit cards.
The regulations would have verified the identity of any person seeking a credit card account, require the company to maintain records of the information used to verify the customer’s identity, and the company will consult lists of known or suspected terrorists or terrorist organizations provided by the appropriate government agency.
Acceptable forms of identification include: a social security card, driver’s license or identification card issued by a State that is in compliance with the Real ID Act, a passport (issued by either the U.S. or a foreign government) or a photo identification card issued by the Secretary of Homeland Security.
Risky lending habits practiced by U.S. banks contributed to the current economic crisis. Illegal aliens were able to obtain credit and were more likely to default without being detected or facing prosecution. Sen. Vitter’s amendment addressed the problem created by these lending habits.
Take Action
Your voice counts! Let your Member of Congress know where you stand on immigration issues through the Action Board. Not a NumbersUSA member? Sign up here to get started.
Donate Today!
NumbersUSA is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that relies on your donations to works toward sensible immigration policies. NumbersUSA Education & Research Foundation is recognized by America's Best Charities as one of the top 3% of well-run charities.
Immigration Grade Cards
NumbersUSA provides the only comprehensive immigration grade cards. See how your member of Congress’ rates and find grades going back to the 104th Congress (1995-97).