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Edmonton is poised to join the ranks of hundreds of cities across North America in welcoming those with precarious or undocumented immigration status.

Council’s community services committee endorsed the new policy in a 3-1 vote Wednesday. It goes to council for a vote next week.

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The new access without fear policy, similar to some sanctuary city policies in the United States, would commit city officials to only ask for the level of identification necessary. That would allow residents to access subsidized transit and recreation passes while they wait for status and not worry about being deported over a peace officer’s jaywalking ticket.

It does not govern how Edmonton police operate.

“This feels like us doing our part and not doing more,” said Coun. Michael Walters, before voting in favour of this move.

Advocacy groups said Edmonton’s new policy would be a welcome but symbolic move.

Many people caught in this issue are worried about being deported to torture or death, said Erick Ambtman, executive director of the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers. “A rec pass is not high on the to-do list.”