Bill > HB1042

This bill addresses the challenges faced by homeless individuals in obtaining essential documentation by creating new provisions for issuing birth records, driver's licenses, and personal identification certificates. The legislation defines a "homeless individual" as someone without a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, including those staying in shelters, temporary institutions, or public spaces not intended for sleeping. Under the new law, homeless individuals can request a free certified birth record from state or county registrars, and they can obtain a driver's license or personal identification certificate without paying standard fees. To verify their homeless status, applicants can provide a letter from directors of emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, homeless shelters, transitional living programs, or specific law enforcement agencies. Importantly, the bill prohibits requiring homeless individuals to provide a physical residential address when applying for these documents. The changes will apply to applications submitted on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, and the Texas Department of Public Safety is tasked with developing rules to implement these new provisions, ensuring that homeless individuals can more easily access critical identification documents.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1042