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SB25-008 would make it easier for Colorado residents who are survivors of crime or natural disasters, low-income or older to obtain government IDs
DENVER, CO - The House today passed legislation sponsored by Representative Meg Froelich that would streamline access to necessary identification documents for vulnerable and low-income Coloradans. SB25-008 passed by a vote of 43-22.
“For 20 years, the Necessary Document Program has provided life-changing services to vulnerable Coloradans, and this bill would improve the program by streamlining free access to these important documents,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “Coloradans who survive house fires, domestic violence, homelessness and other dangerous circumstances often can’t access important identification documents that are required to fulfill everyday needs, like housing, health care and food. By updating this program, we can better protect Coloradans in their darkest moments.”
Colorado’s existing Necessary Document Program helps Colorado residents who are victims of domestic violence, impacted by a natural disaster, low-income, disabled, experiencing homelessness, or elderly afford necessary documents like birth certificates and driver’s licenses. SB25-008 would update the program to allow eligible individuals to acquire these documents for free directly at the point of service, including participating DMVs.
Eligible individuals still have to prove their full legal name, date of birth, identity, and lawful presence in the United States.
SB25-008 would streamline the administration of the Necessary Document Program without changing documentation requirements. Administrative challenges tend to delay vouchers. Additionally, vouchers are time-limited to 30 days after they are distributed to the client, which means they are often not able to be utilized before they expire. This bill would simplify some of the complicated program structure that makes it more difficult for Coloradans to receive vouchers and expand the number of locations where individuals can obtain necessary documents.