The proposed legislation, titled the "State Identification Cards for Minors Without Residence Act," aims to provide state identification cards to minors aged 14 to 17 who are Rhode Island residents without a permanent residence or are in the custody of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). The bill specifies that minors in the care of DCYF can obtain a state identification card with a signed letter from the DCYF administrator. Additionally, minors in the care of a shelter can receive a state ID with a signed letter from the shelter administrator. Minors residing in a shelter with a parental guardian for at least 30 days are also eligible, provided they have a letter from the shelter administrator attesting to their occupancy, along with their birth certificate, social security card, passport, or driver's license. In cases where a minor is residing in a shelter without a parental guardian due to unforeseen circumstances, the shelter administrator may act as the legal guardian for the purposes of obtaining the ID.

The bill exempts these minors from any licensing fees associated with the issuance of the identification cards. Furthermore, it amends existing laws regarding vital records, allowing minors who do not have a residence address or are in DCYF custody to obtain a certified copy of their birth registration without needing a parent, guardian, or foster parent's signature. The act is set to take effect upon passage, ensuring that eligible minors can receive the necessary identification and documentation without financial barriers or parental consent.