H.R. 9141: SAVE America Through REAL ID Act

The SAVE America Through REAL ID Act aims to assist low-income individuals in obtaining identification cards that meet Federal standards necessary for voting and other official purposes. This initiative is particularly focused on eliminating financial barriers that prevent these individuals from acquiring such identification. Below are the main components of the bill:

Purpose

The bill seeks to ensure that all eligible individuals, regardless of their financial situation, have access to identification documents that are compliant with Federal election standards.

Definitions

Key terms are defined in the bill:

• Low-income individual: An individual whose household income is not more than 200% of the Federal poverty level or who participates in a means-tested public assistance program.
• REAL ID-compliant identification: A driver's license or identification card issued by a State that meets the requirements set by Federal law for official purposes.
• State: Refers to any of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories.

Grant Program Established

The Secretary of Homeland Security is tasked with establishing a grant program to provide funds to States. These funds will cover the costs associated with issuing REAL ID-compliant identification at no cost to low-income individuals.

Eligible Uses of Funds

States receiving grants can utilize the funds for various purposes, including:

• Waiving application and issuance fees for eligible individuals.
• Covering administrative costs linked to processing applications.
• Conducting public awareness activities regarding REAL ID eligibility and application processes.
• Providing mobile or remote services for obtaining REAL IDs in underserved areas.
• Assisting applicants in acquiring necessary supporting documentation.

State Applications

To receive funding, each State must submit an application to the Secretary, which should include:

• A description of how the State will identify and verify eligible individuals.
• A plan to eliminate fees for eligible individuals.
• Outreach strategies to promote awareness of the program.
• Assurances of compliance with Federal and State privacy laws.

Allocation of Funds

Funds will be allocated to States based on:

• The population of low-income individuals in the State.
• The demonstrated need for increased access to compliant identification.

Additionally, each State will be guaranteed a minimum allocation determined by the Secretary.

Reporting and Accountability

States that receive funding are required to provide annual reports to the Secretary detailing:

• The number of identification cards issued at no cost.
• Demographic data (as permissible by law).
• Activities conducted for outreach.
• Expenditures of grant funds.

The Secretary is also required to submit a report to Congress summarizing the program's outcomes and effectiveness annually.

Authorization of Appropriations

The bill authorizes a total of $50 million for each fiscal year from 2027 through 2031 to carry out its provisions.

Rulemaking

The Secretary has the authority to create regulations necessary for the implementation of the Act.

Relevant Companies

• None found