Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB858

Introduced
11/30/23  

Caption

Motor vehicles; issuance of an alternative state identification card by the Department of Driver Services; provide

Impact

Central to the bill's impact is its provision for issuing personal identification cards to individuals, including those who may not otherwise qualify for a drivers' license. This is particularly significant for noncitizens and individuals who have recently been released from incarceration, as the bill facilitates their ability to obtain a state-issued ID, which can be crucial for accessing various services and participating fully in society. The law stipulates that applicants must provide documentary evidence of their identity and residency, thus protecting the integrity of the identification process.

Summary

House Bill 858 is a proposed legislative act aimed at amending Chapter 5 of Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, which pertains to drivers' licenses and identification cards. The bill focuses on the issuance of an alternative state identification card by the Department of Driver Services (DDS). It outlines specific application standards, required documentation, and the content and formatting of the identification cards, reflecting a regulatory effort to streamline the process of obtaining state identification for residents of Georgia.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 858 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for civil rights and access to identification for vulnerable populations. The provision allowing the issuance of IDs to previously incarcerated individuals has been seen as a positive step towards reintegration into society. However, it may also face scrutiny from those concerned about identity verification processes and the potential for misuse. As with many pieces of legislation, opinions may vary depending on political and social perspectives.

Contention

Notable points of contention around the bill may include debates over the security measures required for obtaining such identification and the implications of allowing noncitizens to hold an alternative state ID. Additionally, concerns may arise regarding how the bill interacts with existing laws governing personal identification in Georgia, especially in relation to federal law compliance and the potential administrative burden on the Department of Driver Services. Any amendments to eligibility requirements or the documentation process will likely provoke discussion among legislators and constituents alike.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA AB1766

Department of Motor Vehicles: driver’s licenses and identification cards.

GA HB1515

Relating to the assumption of the powers and duties relating to driver's licenses and personal identification cards by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and the authority of a county to provide driver's licenses and other identification certificate services.

GA HB333

Motor vehicles; issuance of driving cards to noncitizen residents who are ineligible for a driver's license, temporary permit, or identification card; provide

GA HF4369

Driver and Vehicle Services policies clarified and modified, including but not limited to noncompliant driver's licenses and identification cards, recreational vehicles, and driver education program; and technical corrections made.

GA H1639

Driver Licenses and Identification Cards

GA HB4036

Relating to public safety and the issuance of driver's licenses and identification cards.

GA SB1237

Relating to the assumption of the powers and duties relating to driver's licenses, personal identification cards, the driver responsibility program, and other related powers and duties by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

GA SB154

Prohibits the Department of Motor Vehicles from charging certain fees for the issuance of a Real ID-compliant driver's license, commercial driver's license or identification card. (BDR 43-575)

GA H0163

Driver License and Identification Card Gender Designation

GA H0249

Driver License and Identification Card Gender Designation

Similar Bills

NJ A3907

Requires MVC to accept certain documentation as proof of social security number for issuance of standard non-driver identification card.

HI HB740

Relating To Voting.

HI SB2456

Relating To Identification Cards.

GA SB478

"Freedom to Drive Act"; enact

HI HB773

Relating To Identification.

HI HB773

Relating To Identification.

HI HB485

Relating To Marriage.

NJ A4774

"Enhanced ID Act"; requires MVC to create and issue enhanced driver's licenses and enhanced non-driver identification cards.