Bill > HB505

This bill addresses the challenges faced by homeless individuals in obtaining essential identification documents by establishing a process for issuing birth records, driver's licenses, and personal identification certificates without requiring a physical address. The bill defines a "homeless individual" broadly, including those without a fixed residence or living in temporary shelters, transitional housing, or non-traditional living situations. Under the new provisions, homeless individuals can obtain a certified birth record from state or local registrars without paying a fee, using a verification letter from authorized directors of shelters, housing programs, or law enforcement agencies. Similarly, the Texas Department of Transportation must develop rules to issue driver's licenses and personal identification certificates to homeless individuals, exempting them from standard fees and physical address requirements. The bill also modifies existing fee exemption account procedures to accommodate these new provisions, ensuring that the Texas Workforce Commission and mobility fund are appropriately compensated. These changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to applications submitted on or after that date, helping to reduce barriers for homeless individuals in accessing critical identification documents.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB505