SPRINGFIELD –– Senior citizens in Illinois would be issued non-
expiring state identification cards under legislation approved
today by the Illinois Senate. Secretary of State Jesse White has
asked the Legislature to make the identification cards permanent
for citizens aged 65 and older.
"This is one more way to improve customer service in the
Secretary of State’s office and serve the public more
efficiently," said White. "Illinois identification cards provide
a legally recognizable form of identity for many Illinois
citizens. Senior citizens who have stopped driving shouldn’t
have to make an extra trip to a local driver services facility to
get a new picture for their ID card."
Currently, senior citizens must renew their state ID every
ten years. Senate Bill 1353 would make identification cards for
persons aged 65 and older non-expiring. The legislation is
supported by the American Association of Retired Persons.
"Many seniors use these cards when cashing a check or for
other purposes," said Assistant Senate Democratic Leader Vince
DeMuzio (D-Carlinville), lead sponsor of the legislation. "They
may no longer possess a driver’s license and depend on this card
when asked to show identification. Though persons over the age
of 65 pay no fee for their cards, under current law they must
renew them every ten years. This strikes me as unnecessary."
The legislation, which received unanimous approval from the
Senate, now moves to the House of Representatives for
consideration.
