Why the Homeless ID Law should be passed
By Josh Baskin
Bill H.3750 — An Act to provide identification to youth and adults experiencing homelessness
This bill creates a process for people who are homeless or unaccompanied homeless youth to apply for a Massachusetts identification card without fees.
Applicants can verify residency using documentation from:
Homeless or youth service providers, or
State agencies such as the Executive Office of Health and Human Services or the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.
10 Major Issues Without Access to an ID
1. Inability to Access Government Benefits
Programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and Social Security require valid ID.
Without ID, homeless individuals lose access to food, healthcare, and financial aid.
2. Difficulty Finding Employment
•Employers require ID for hiring, tax forms, and background checks.
No ID = no legal work = continued poverty.
3. Barriers to Healthcare
Hospitals and clinics often require ID for non-emergency care and prescriptions.
Many mental health and addiction programs also require identification.
4. No Access to Housing or Shelters
•Shelters need ID for safety and records.
Public housing programs also require identification, trapping people in homelessness.
5. Inability to Open a Bank Account
Banks require ID to open an account.
Without one, homeless individuals must rely on cash, making saving and stability difficult.
Pros of the Homeless ID Law
Easier Access to Services: Opens doors to housing, healthcare, and benefits.
Voting Rights: Helps homeless citizens exercise their right to vote.
Employment Opportunities: Enables legal work through ID verification.
Reduced Legal Issues: Simplifies interactions with shelters and law enforcement.
Financial Inclusion: Allows for opening bank accounts and securing money safely.
Cons of the Homeless ID Law
Cost to Government: Administrative expenses (printing, staffing, verification).
Potential for Fraud: Some fear multiple IDs could be issued to the same person.
Logistical Challenges: Lack of birth certificates or Social Security cards may delay the process.
Privacy Concerns: Some individuals worry about government tracking.
Risk of Misuse: A few might use IDs for fraudulent benefits or activities.
By the Numbers...
28% of young homeless people in Massachusetts (2021) said lack of ID was a barrier to services.
Over 1 in 10 homeless individuals struggle to get help due to missing identification (Mass.gov).
10.7% of homeless clients lacked photo IDs in a 2004 study.
Organizations like Boston Share Network’s “You Are SomeBody!” program highlight ID access as key to escaping poverty.
As of 2024, about 17,975 people in Massachusetts experience homelessness nightly — one of the highest rates in the U.S.
Where the Homeless ID Law Works Arizona
The Homeless ID Project helps people replace lost IDs and birth certificates for free.
Partnered with the Arizona MVD to issue IDs on-site — helping thousands.
Oklahoma
HB 3231 (2024): Homeless youth (14–21) can get free state IDs with provider verification.
Success depends on outreach and awareness.
Pennsylvania
Act 131 of 2020: Allows homeless individuals to get free initial or renewal photo IDs at PennDOT centers with shelter verification.
Currently active and effective.
California
AB 1733: Provides free certified birth records and ID fee waivers for verified homeless individuals.
Implementation varies by county but has reduced barriers significantly.