HB 2161 by Rep. S. Turner

This legislation was signed by the Governor into law and requires the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to issue a driver’s license or state identification to individuals before time of release. Prior to the passage of this legislation, men and women were released with only a TDCJ ID card which is a document not recognized by Texas governmental agencies. Without a legal and verifiable form of identification, men and women are barred from gaining employment and housing.  Without employment and housing, successful reintegration is impossible.   Currently, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the Texas Department of State Health Services have joined to create a memorandum of understanding to implement the provisions of HB 2161.