SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons is continuing his push to remove barriers to accessing housing and state resources for unhoused Illinoisans.

“Unhoused individuals often have no form of legal identification, affecting their housing, job prospects, transit options and more,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “To get an identification card, these individuals are required to have a signature from a notary, which comes at a cost. This legislation will ease the requirements to make the whole process easier.”

Currently, application fees for standard Illinois state IDs are waived for unhoused individuals, but their application must be accompanied by a notarized affirmation. This can be difficult for individuals with little financial resources, as notary fees vary but can cost up to $25. Under Senate Bill 1173, notaries would no longer be able to charge a notary fee to unhoused individuals trying to apply for and obtain a state ID.

“Making it easier for our unhoused neighbors to get an ID card helps move them toward more stability in their life,” said Simmons. “Day-to-day tasks often require identification, and with this legislation, we can make sure all residents in Illinois can easily access the services they need.”