This bill mandates the Office of Homelessness Prevention (OHP) within the Department of Community Affairs to contract with county agencies or nonprofits in each county to provide personal identification and coordinate the issuance of birth certificates for individuals experiencing homelessness. The bill allows these agencies or nonprofits to directly access and issue birth certificates from the State Office of Vital Statistics and Registry, ensuring that they notify the office of each issuance. This initiative aims to facilitate access to essential identification documents for homeless individuals, thereby aiding their transition to permanent housing.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $2 million from the General Fund to support these contracted county agencies or nonprofits, with the funds allocated based on the homeless population in each county. This financial support is intended to enhance the effectiveness of the OHP's efforts in addressing homelessness and ensuring that individuals have the necessary documentation to access services and resources. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27D-287.5