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HB 2490

Requiring the West Virginia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to provide an inmate with one physical copy of their birth certificate and social security card upon release

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Holstein and 2 co-sponsors

HB 2490 requires West Virginia to provide inmates with their birth certificate and social security card upon release, easing their reintegration into society.

To House Judiciary
#corrections
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2490

Summary of HB 2490: Inmate Release Documentation Act

Bill Number: HB 2490
Title: Requiring the West Virginia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to provide an inmate with one physical copy of their birth certificate and social security card upon release
Status: To House Judiciary
Introduced: February 03, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Corrections

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 2490 is to facilitate the reintegration of inmates into society by ensuring they receive essential identification documents upon their release. Specifically, the bill mandates that the West Virginia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation provide each inmate with a physical copy of their birth certificate and social security card. This initiative aims to reduce barriers to employment, housing, and access to services that require identification.

Key Provisions

  • Provision of Documents: The bill requires the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to provide:

    • One physical copy of the inmate's birth certificate.
    • One physical copy of the inmate's social security card.

  • Timing of Document Provision: These documents must be provided to inmates at the time of their release from incarceration.

Impact

  • Inmates: The bill directly affects individuals who are incarcerated in West Virginia. By providing essential identification documents, it aims to ease their transition back into society and improve their chances of securing employment and housing.

  • Department of Corrections: The bill places an additional responsibility on the West Virginia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to ensure that these documents are prepared and distributed to inmates prior to their release.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of now, the bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for further consideration.
  • Timeline: The bill was introduced on February 3, 2025, and is currently in the legislative process, awaiting review and potential amendments by the committee.

Conclusion

HB 2490 represents a significant step towards supporting the reintegration of former inmates into society by ensuring they have the necessary identification documents upon release. By addressing this critical need, the bill aims to facilitate access to employment and essential services, ultimately contributing to lower recidivism rates and improved community outcomes.

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

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