Bill > SB91

This bill requires driver's licenses and identification cards issued in Montana to display a visual marker indicating United States citizenship, specifically by adding an image of an eagle to these documents for U.S. citizens starting on January 1, 2026. The legislation amends existing laws governing driver's licenses and identification cards to mandate that any card issued to a U.S. citizen must include this visual citizenship indicator. For non-citizens, the bill maintains existing requirements that their presence in the United States must be legally authorized, and the department will continue to verify their status using federal verification programs. The bill applies to all new driver's licenses and identification cards issued on or after January 1, 2026, and is intended to be implemented using existing agency resources. The legislative intent suggests this is primarily an administrative change to provide a clear, visual representation of citizenship status on state-issued identification documents, with the eagle symbol serving as the specific marker for U.S. citizenship.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0319