Bill H.351, introduced by Representative Headrick, seeks to amend the regulations regarding operator licenses, privilege cards, and nondriver identification cards in Vermont. The bill proposes to extend the validity of these documents to eight years from the date of issue. It also introduces provisions for reduced fees for low-income individuals, allowing those with household incomes below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level to obtain these documents for free, while those below 200% would pay a reduced fee. Additionally, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is tasked with ensuring that identification cards reflect individuals' full legal names and are accessible to unhoused individuals or those without permanent residences.

The bill mandates the DMV to conduct a comprehensive outreach campaign to inform Vermonters about their rights related to obtaining licenses and identification cards, including self-attestation of gender markers and the availability of reduced fees. This campaign will utilize various media platforms, including printed materials and public service announcements in both English and Spanish, as well as the next eight most commonly spoken languages in Vermont. The bill also allows individuals to exchange their existing licenses or cards for the new eight-year versions without incurring additional fees. It is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, providing time for the necessary preparations for the outreach campaign.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 23-601, 23-603, 23-608, 23-115