SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — People leaving Illinois prisons and jails could soon receive a state ID for free.
Under Senate Bill 2803, incarcerated people who previously held a state ID or driver's license would be able to submit a form to the Secretary of State's Office. Applicants would need a photo taken by the correctional facility and must provide proof of residency upon discharge.
Sen. Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) said Wednesday that people released on parole, mandatory supervised release or a pardon could receive a temporary 90 day state ID if they do not receive a standard state ID before they leave a correctional facility.
"The impetus for this legislation is to help reduce recidivism," Belt said. "We know that if you come out and you're already able to get identification that it helps you gain traction as you go forward."
Although, Senate Republicans argued the state should not prioritize people convicted of crimes over poor Illinoisans who have to pay for their identification cards.
"Right now, we're prioritizing those who have been convicted by a jury," said Sen. Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport). "Yet, you can be a single working mother and $20 is perhaps a hill too high to climb right now financially. Those that are not convicted and playing by the rules are left to pay the fee."
Senate Bill 2803 passed out of the Senate on a partisan 41-18 vote. The proposal now heads to the House for further consideration.
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