Texas House Bill HB4678

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of an offender identification card or similar form of identification as proof of identity for an applicant for a driver's license or commercial driver's license.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would expand the types of identification accepted for driver's license applications, thereby potentially easing access for individuals who may have previously encountered barriers in providing conventional identification. This could assist ex-offenders in reintegrating into society by allowing them more accessible means to obtain essential identification documents necessary for employment and mobility. The changes, however, would only apply to applications submitted after the effective date of the bill, which is set for September 1, 2009.

Summary

House Bill 4678 proposes an amendment to the Texas Transportation Code, specifically regarding the acceptability of certain forms of identification for applicants seeking a driver's license or commercial driver's license. The primary focus of the bill is to allow the use of an offender identification card or similar forms of identification issued by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as valid proof of identity during the application process for these licenses. The bill outlines the legislative directive that the Department must accept such identification as satisfactory proof when verifying the identity of applicants.

Contention

While the bill's intention is to facilitate the identification process for certain individuals, there might be concerns regarding public safety and the implications of allowing offender identification cards as valid proof. Critics may argue that this could lead to potential risks if proper vetting measures are not in place. Additionally, there could be discussions concerning the fairness and equity of providing easier access to identification for individuals with a criminal background, raising issues about stigma and public perception.