SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 2607

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.

Sponsors: House Committee on Human Services & Early Learning (originally sponsored by Representatives Callan, Corry, Caldier, Eslick, Orwall, Entenman, Davis, Shewmake, Lekanoff, Thai, Chapman, Steele, Fey, Chopp, Robinson, Bergquist, Senn, Cody, Doglio, Goodman, Leavitt, Ramel, Santos, Ormsby, Pollet, Kloba and Macri).

Brief Summary of Bill

Expands eligibility for the at-cost identicard for individuals without a permanent address from age 18 to age 25.
Requires the Department of Licensing, in collaboration with other agencies, to develop alternative documentation methods and processes to assist individuals in obtaining the at-cost identicard.

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 issued by DOL.

DOL must issue an identicard, containing a picture, to any applicant provided the applicant:

does not hold a valid Washington driver's license;
proves the applicant's identity; and
pays the required statutory $54 fee.

An identicard is distinctly designed so it is not confused with an official driver's license, and it expires on the sixth anniversary of the applicant's birth date after issuance. An applicant may renew an identicard by means personally appearing at a DOL office, by mail, or by electronic commerce.

An at-cost identicard—based on the production costs rather than the $54 fee—can be provided if the applicant is:

receiving public assistance;
being discharged from certain state and local facilities; or
under the age of 18 without a permanent residence address.

Summary of Bill: The eligibility for the at-cost identicard for individuals without a permanent address is increased from age 18 to age 25.

DOL, in consultation with the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF), the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the Office of Homeless Youth Prevention and Protection Programs (OHY) must:

develop other forms of identification that may meet the alternative documentation requirements for eligibility for an identicard; and
create a process for certain entities to submit Washington state identicard application materials for individuals qualifying for the at-cost identicard.

DCYF must assist licensed or contracted providers in submitting identicard application materials for the at-cost identicard.

DOL must accept identicard application materials for eligible individuals, including identity documentation from a variety of entities. These entities include:

individuals or entities licensed or contracting with DCYF;
individual schools or school districts; and
individuals or entities contracting with OHY.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: There is already a pathway for certain youth to obtain an at-cost identicard and this creates a parallel path for youth that are experiencing homelessness. The expansion of the alternative documentation is intended to provide better access to an identicard, but also preserve the integrity of the identicard system. Providing greater access to an identicard is important step to reducing barriers for homeless youth achieving greater economic self-sufficiency. The changes from this bill will make the process to obtaining an identicard more streamlined for youth. The lack of identification is a major impediment to youth in obtaining employment, housing, and access to social services.