Bill > HB728

This bill establishes the Identification Upon Reentry Program, a collaborative initiative between Pennsylvania's Department of Corrections, Department of Health, and Department of Transportation designed to help incarcerated individuals obtain critical identification documents before and immediately after release from state correctional institutions. The program will assist eligible offenders in acquiring essential documents such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, photo identification cards, and driver's licenses at no cost to the offender. Key components include providing comprehensive assistance in document preparation, helping offenders navigate application processes, and offering support for obtaining replacement or renewed licenses if needed. The program allows eligible offenders to opt out and requires the participating agencies to develop monitoring and accountability systems, including submitting an annual report to legislative committees detailing the number of offenders who successfully obtained identification documents and those who did not, along with explanations. By addressing potential barriers to reintegration related to identification, the program aims to support formerly incarcerated individuals in their transition back into society. The legislation will take effect 60 days after its enactment, with the departments involved authorized to develop specific rules and regulations to implement the program.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=728