Bill > H3735

This bill modifies Massachusetts law regarding identification cards to expand access and protect applicants' privacy. Specifically, the bill allows individuals who cannot provide proof of lawful presence, including those without a social security number, to obtain a Massachusetts identification card if they can provide satisfactory proof of identity, date of birth, and Massachusetts residency. The bill requires that when processing these applications, the registrar of motor vehicles cannot inquire about or record an applicant's citizenship or immigration status, except as required by specific federal laws. The bill also makes several technical changes to reference "REAL ID-compliant" identification cards and ensures that if a REAL ID-compliant card holder cannot provide proof of lawful presence when renewing their card, they can still apply for a Massachusetts identification card. Importantly, the bill includes a privacy protection provision that makes any information provided by or about identification card applicants confidential, prohibiting disclosure except as required by federal law or authorized by the attorney general's regulations, thus helping to protect vulnerable individuals from potential immigration enforcement.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3735