Lex End Homelessness Supports House Bill 21

Official state identification (ID) plays a critical role in access to employment, medication, political participation, essential support services, and housing. However, people who are experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity often struggle to access such necessary documentation due to the lack of a fixed home address. 

By addressing some of the common barriers for obtaining a state ID, House Bill (HB) 21 disrupts the cycle of homelessness and helps us work towards a world where everyone has access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. Lex End Homelessness is proud to support this critical piece of legislation in homelessness intervention and prevention work.

What is House Bill 21?

HB 21 is a proposal that seeks to streamline the process for individuals experiencing homelessness to obtain state identification. HB 21 already passed the House of Representatives unanimously and will head to the Kentucky General Assembly early this year.

What will HB 21 accomplish? 

Cost, permission, and the limited validity of legal identification are all possible reasons why someone experiencing homelessness may struggle to get access to consistent state IDs. 

If passed, HB 21 will:

• Reduce the cost for agencies and people experiencing homelessness from $10 to $5
• Allow 16 and 17-year-olds who are experiencing homelessness to get an ID without the consent of a parent or guardian
• Permit people to renew a driver's license while they are temporarily homeless
• Extend the validity of state-issued IDs from one year to three years

How can I show my support?

There are many ways for you to express support of HB 21 and resources to help you do so

Organizations supporting HB 21 can sign the Housing and Homeless Coalition of Kentucky’s letter of support. This letter will be sent to all members of House and Senate leadership and already includes LEH partners and human service providers across Kentucky. 

Organizations and individuals can also sign the Coalition for the Homelessness’ campaign: “Kentuckians experiencing homelessness need access to IDs.” 

You can also begin by identifying your legislator. Both of the above resources include language for contacting your representative directly. 

Finally, use our social media toolkit to share your support online. Don’t forget to tag Lex End Homelessness in your posts.