Free IDs Will Go a Long Way in Illinois

by Shannon Moriarty · 2009-08-13 20:36:00 UTC
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Yesterday, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed into law a simple amendment with big implications for the state's homeless population. House Bill 897, an amendment to the Illinois Identification Card Act, will allow homeless people to waive the fee usually required to receive an state identification card. 

The Heartland Alliance for Human Needs and Human Rights blog covered this gem-of-a-story yesterday, giving much-deserved props to Governor Quinn for demonstrating that he understands the challenges a small fee can present for those trying to get back on their feet.

Don't believe me? Here's a list of the programs for which identification is required on a regular basis, courtesy of the Poverty to Opportunity Campaign blog:

  • Federal and state aid, such as food stamps, medical assistance, unemployment benefits, and cash grants

  • Job training and education programs

  • Substance abuse recovery and other medical services

  • Overnight Shelter and emergency housing assistance

  • Longer-term, transitional housing

This is just a baby step in a long battle to end homelessness for good. But for now, in one little corner of the world, life is getting slightly easier for those struggling to survive in difficult circumstances. 
Shannon Moriarty has worked in various homeless shelters and service organizations around the country. She is a graduate student studying housing and urban policy at Tufts University.
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