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The U.S. State Department has recently made headlines by ordering certain public libraries to stop processing passport applications, impacting services that many communities have leaned on for nearly two decades. This directive has elicited strong reactions from both library officials and community members who rely on these services, especially during increased passport demand.
In a move that has shocked many, the State Department began issuing cease and desist orders to not-for-profit libraries nationwide late in the fall of the previous year. The order mandates that these libraries can no longer participate in the Passport Acceptance Facility program effective immediately. Such a decision has disrupted a longstanding and successful service that has run smoothly for years.
Cathleen Special, the executive director of the Otis Library in Norwich, Connecticut, articulated the distress many feel over the loss of this service. “We still receive daily inquiries for passport services,” she said, highlighting the vital role that libraries play in assisting their communities. The library had provided passport services for 18 years but had to halt operations last November following the State Department’s order.
The Rationale Behind the Order
The State Department has justified this change by citing federal law, which prohibits non-governmental organizations from collecting and retaining fees for passport applications. Surprisingly, government-run libraries are not affected by this order, creating an unequal playing field for communities relying on nonprofit libraries for passport processing.
Although officials say the number of affected libraries makes up less than one percent of the overall networkâaround 1,400 librariesâthose impacted still represent roughly 15% of public libraries across the nation, many of which are structured as nonprofit entities.
Political Pushback and Community Concerns
In response to this order, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers from Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland has mobilized. They have sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging him to reconsider the new policy and extend the existing program while Congress seeks a long-term solution.
This effort underscores the libraries’ accessibility, especially for working families and residents in rural areas. As demand for travel documents surges, the change leaves many citizens anxious about accessibility and the possible need to travel long distances to obtain a passport.
The legislators also invoked the recent push for strict voter identification requirements, stressing that many citizens may need passports to register to vote. Community libraries often assist those with language barriers or limited mobility, providing crucial support that may no longer be available.
The Impact on State Libraries
In states like Pennsylvania, where 85% of public libraries are structured as non-profit organizations, the fallout from this decision could be severe. Some libraries, while benefiting from passport application fees, may have to cut staff, reduce programs, or even shut their doors if they cannot continue providing these essential services.
As stated by Representative Madeleine Dean, the change is already affecting constituents who previously relied on local libraries. In her district, one library had served as a passport facility for 20 years. Meanwhile, Representative John Joyce highlighted how rural areas would suffer with only limited government options available.
The State Department maintains that 99% of the U.S. population is within 20 miles of an authorized passport processing facility. This claim, however, fails to address the unique circumstances of communities where libraries have fulfilled this role for years.
Moving Forward: Possible Solutions
Lawmakers are exploring legislative options to allow nonprofit public libraries to continue serving as passport acceptance facilities. There are proposals pending in Congress that aim to amend existing laws and permit libraries to aid citizens with passport applications. However, the outcome of such efforts remains to be seen.
As the demand for passports only continues to grow, the resolution of this issue will not only affect library programs but also the citizens who depend on them. Support from local communities and advocacy groups for libraries may be integral in reversing the State Department’s recent stance.
FAQs About State Department Passport Changes
Why did the State Department order libraries to stop processing passports?
The State Department cited federal law, which prohibits non-governmental organizations from collecting and retaining fees for passport applications, as the reason behind the order.
How many libraries are affected by this change?
Approximately 1,400 nonprofit libraries could potentially be affected, representing about 15% of all public libraries in the U.S.
What can communities do about this situation?
Community members can advocate for their libraries by contacting local representatives and supporting efforts to amend existing laws to allow libraries to process passport applications.
How will this impact rural communities?
Rural communities will face significant challenges as many rely on local libraries for accessible passport processing, which may no longer be available.
What are lawmakers doing to address this issue?
Bipartisan representatives are pushing for legislative changes that would allow nonprofit libraries to continue serving as passport acceptance facilities.
