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Committee forwards bill to ensure IDs, transit and full gate money at release
Summary
Lawmakers voted unanimously to send HB 12‑56 to appropriations. The bill requires the Department of Corrections to make state ID and Social Security cards available and to deliver the full $100 release allowance without deductions, plus a 30‑day transit pass where applicable; sponsors said DOC helped craft operational amendments.
House Bill 12‑56 would require the Department of Corrections to ensure individuals leaving custody receive their full $100 gate allowance without offsetting deductions, expand access to the existing ID program (default opt‑out with 180‑day check‑in), and where appropriate provide a 30‑day transit pass so people can reach services. Sponsors said the bill closes gaps between statutory promises and practice: many people reported leaving custody with no cash, missing IDs or delayed final pay, hindering access to benefits, employment and housing.
Formerly incarcerated witnesses testified about delays in getting final pay, IDs and birth certificates; community reentry providers (Anineo, Second Chance Center, Hazelbrook Recovery) said the day‑one supports would increase success and reduce recidivism. Committee adopted a technical L1 amendment produced with DOC that clarified timelines and reporting requirements. The measure was moved to Appropriations with a favorable recommendation, with sponsors highlighting further follow‑up and reporting requirements.
What’s at stake: Sponsors framed the bill as a public‑safety investment that lowers recidivism by reducing immediate hardship on release; several members and witnesses noted that $100 has not been adjusted since 1972 and that future work will likely consider inflation adjustments.
