Bill > HB1074

This bill modifies the existing law about obtaining a free birth certificate for individuals experiencing homelessness by expanding the list of professionals who can sign an affidavit attesting to a person's homeless status. Currently, the law allows one free certified copy of a birth certificate to be obtained with proof of homelessness, and this bill broadens the range of authorized individuals who can verify a person's housing status, now including school counselors, school nurses, licensed social workers, law enforcement officers designated as homeless liaison, homeless liaisons from school districts, and representatives from government or nonprofit agencies providing services to homeless individuals. The bill aims to make it easier for people experiencing homelessness to obtain their birth certificates by providing more options for verifying their housing status, which can be a critical document for accessing various social services, employment, and identification purposes. The change will take effect on January 1, 2025, and maintains the existing requirement that the affidavit must be signed by both the individual experiencing homelessness and the qualified service provider.

Education

https://sdlegislature.gov/#/Session/Bill/25879