[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 158 (Thursday, September 29, 2022)]
[House]
[Page H8227]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          ACCESS TO A PHOTO ID

  (Mr. CASTEN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. CASTEN. Mr. Speaker, there are over 21 million Americans who 
don't have a photo ID. That is 21 million Americans who can't obtain 
employment, lease or purchase a home, or open a bank account.
  If you are a veteran, you need an ID to access the VA benefits you 
have earned. If you are a single mom, you need an ID to access WIC and 
SNAP benefits for your children. In 35 States, you need a photo ID to 
vote.
  The current process for obtaining an ID is inconsistent across 
States. It can be expensive, and it often requires documentation that 
many Americans just don't have.
  That is why, last week, I introduced the IDs for an Inclusive 
Democracy Act. This will provide a free Federal ID to any American 
citizen over the age of 14 who wants one.
  It will ensure that every American has access to the services that 
they need. And no less important, it will ensure that America has the 
access to every American's opinion at the ballot box.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues who support our founding 
promise of equality and our commitment to democracy to support this 
important legislation.

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