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Bill Summary · HB 296

Summary of House Bill 296 (HB 296)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 296 aims to amend various sections of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to update identification requirements for voting, hunting, and driving. The bill primarily focuses on the presentation of identification in physical and electronic formats, enhancing the verification process for driver's licenses, and addressing the use of wireless telecommunications devices by law enforcement.

Key Provisions

HB 296 includes several significant amendments:

1. Voter Identification Requirements

  • Physical Format Requirement: The bill mandates that voters present a Georgia driver's license in a physical format at polling places. Acceptable forms of identification include:
    • A Georgia driver's license.
    • A valid Georgia voter identification card.
    • A U.S. passport.
    • A government-issued employee ID with a photo.
    • A U.S. military ID.
    • A tribal ID with a photo.

2. Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping Licenses

  • Identification for Licenses: Individuals must present a driver's license in physical format to obtain hunting, fishing, or trapping licenses. This requirement aims to ensure proper identification during the licensing process.

3. Driver's License Regulations

  • Electronic Format Acceptance: The bill allows for the presentation of a driver's license in an electronic format while operating a vehicle, provided that law enforcement has the necessary equipment to verify its validity.
  • Protection of Wireless Devices: Licensees cannot be compelled to produce their wireless telecommunications devices to law enforcement officers, protecting individuals from potential searches of their devices.

4. Implementation of Technology

  • The bill requires the provision of equipment and technology to verify the validity of driver's licenses presented in electronic formats by July 1, 2027.

5. Penalties for Non-compliance

  • A person who fails to present a valid driver's license may face a fine of up to $10 if they can produce a valid license in court after the fact.

Affected Parties

  • Voters: Individuals participating in elections will need to ensure they have the appropriate physical identification.
  • Hunters and Fishers: Those seeking licenses for hunting and fishing will need to comply with the new identification requirements.
  • Drivers: All drivers in Georgia will benefit from the option to present their driver's license electronically, enhancing convenience while ensuring compliance with identification laws.
  • Law Enforcement: Officers will need to adapt to the new regulations regarding the verification of electronic licenses and the handling of wireless devices.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 5, 2025
  • Status: The bill has passed both the House and Senate and was signed by the Governor on May 14, 2025, becoming Act 256.
  • Effective Date: The provisions of the bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 296 represents a significant update to Georgia's identification requirements for voting, hunting, and driving. By allowing electronic formats for driver's licenses and reinforcing the need for physical identification in certain contexts, the bill aims to streamline processes while enhancing security and compliance.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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