Federal inmates to receive photo ID cards upon release under new bill

What does this do?

HR 5152 requires the federal Bureau of Prisons to issue a REAL ID-compliant photo ID card to every U.S. citizen released from federal prison. The card must remain valid for at least 18 months after release and must be accepted by a wide range of federal agencies and programs, including Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, food stamps, federal housing, veterans benefits, Department of Education programs, and federal buildings. The Bureau of Prisons would also work with states to explore whether the card could be accepted when someone applies for a state-issued ID such as a driver's license.

Who does it affect?

This bill directly affects people leaving federal prison, who would receive the ID card, and the Bureau of Prisons, which would be responsible for creating and running the program. Federal agencies would be required to accept the card, while state governments would be encouraged but not required to participate in a similar system for people leaving state prisons.

Why does it matter?

People released from federal prison frequently have no valid identification, which creates barriers to accessing housing, employment, benefits, and government services. The Attorney General would issue guidance to help states build comparable ID programs for people leaving state custody.

Where does it stand?