SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5382
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 5, 2017
Title: An act relating to the issuance of identicards at a reduced cost to applicants who are under the age of eighteen and without a permanent residence address.
Brief Description: Authorizing the issuance of identicards at a reduced cost to applicants who are under the age of eighteen and without a permanent residence address.
Sponsors: Senators Liias, Hobbs, Walsh, King, Takko, Saldaña, Cleveland, Chase, Kuderer and Wellman.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/30/17.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Kellee Keegan (786-7429)
Background: The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) issues driver's licenses, endorsements, and identicards that are valid for up to six years. An identicard is a Washington identification card (ID) issued by the DOL.
The DOL must issue an identicard, containing a picture, to any applicant provided that the applicant: (1) does not hold a valid Washington driver's license, (2) proves the applicant's identity, and (3) pays the required statutory $54 fee, unless the applicant receives public assistance, in which case the cost is equal to the actual cost to produce the identicard.
Identicards are distinctly designed so that they are not confused with an official driver's license and expire on the sixth anniversary of the applicant's birth date after issuance. An applicant may renew an identicard by means of personal appearance at a DOL office, by mail, or electronic commerce.
Summary of Bill: People who are under the age of 18 and who do not have a primary residence address would be able to qualify to receive an identicard from the DOL at cost. The DOL would be required to actuate in rule how not having a primary residence address would be determined.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: The bill contains several effective dates. Please refer to the bill.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: In order to get a job or permanent housing, folks need identification. These kids are under the age of 18 and the way the law is now they do not qualify for the subsidized identicard. It would be better to have the nonprofits who serve these kids to spend their funds on services such as food, clothing, and shelter. There are many barriers for those under the age of 18 and sleeping on the streets. For homeless youth, the cost is prohibitive for getting an ID. There is an additional cost on top of the identicard for getting a birth certificate, which can amount to well over $20. An ID is necessary to function in this society. For homeless youth, this is a matter of survival. The Governor's strategies for making it easier for homeless youth include the ability to obtain IDs.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Marko Liias, Prime Sponsor; Kim Justice, Office of Homeless Youth, Department of Commerce; Elysa Hovard, Cocoon House Outreach Director; Jalen Gobat, citizen.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.