Bill > H2326

This bill aims to facilitate a successful transition and re-entry into society for incarcerated persons. The key provisions include: 1. The commissioner will ensure that the chief administrative officer of a correctional facility begins the process of securing an identification card (such as a REAL ID-compliant identification card or license) for an incarcerated person no later than 120 days prior to their expected discharge date. 2. The bill allows incarcerated persons to use alternative addresses, such as a family member's residence, a temporary group residence, or a place of worship, to fulfill the residency requirements for obtaining an identification card or license. 3. The Registry of Motor Vehicles will accept a valid inmate identification card issued by a Massachusetts correctional facility as proof of Massachusetts residency for the purpose of issuing an identification card or license. 4. Incarcerated persons can choose not to receive an identification card or license, and the commissioner must report annually on the number of such individuals and their reasons. 5. The administrative officer will assist the incarcerated person in submitting an affidavit of indigency to the Registry of Motor Vehicles to have the identification card or license provided at no cost. If the person does not qualify for indigency, they can use funds from their personal canteen account to pay the fees. 6. Upon discharge, an incarcerated person who did not refuse an identification card or license will be provided with it. The overall purpose of this bill is to facilitate the successful reintegration of incarcerated individuals into society by ensuring they have the necessary identification documents upon their release.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H2326