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SB 617

State: identification cards; mobile official state personal identification card; provide for. Amends sec. 2 of 1972 PA 222 (MCL 28.292). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0620'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sarah Anthony and 3 co-sponsors

Michigan bill authorizes mobile digital state ID cards accessible via smartphones, requiring complementary legislation for implementation while raising security, privacy, and digital access concerns.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
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Bill Summary · SB 617

Legislative bill overview

SB 617 amends Michigan's identification card law to authorize the creation and use of mobile official state personal identification cards, likely in digital format accessible via smartphones or other electronic devices. The bill is tied to SB 620, suggesting complementary legislation that may address implementation details or related provisions.

Why is this important

Digital identification could increase accessibility for residents who need state IDs, reduce the need for physical card replacements, and potentially streamline identity verification for various state and private transactions. However, this represents a significant shift in how Michigan manages official identity documentation and raises questions about security, privacy, and digital equity.

Potential points of contention

  • Digital security and fraud prevention — Mobile IDs require robust cybersecurity measures to prevent counterfeiting, unauthorized access, or data breaches that could compromise citizens' personal information
  • Privacy concerns — Digital tracking of ID usage, location data collection, and third-party access to identification information require clear safeguards and transparency
  • Equity and accessibility — Not all residents have smartphones or consistent digital access; the bill must ensure traditional physical IDs remain available to avoid creating a two-tiered system that disadvantages vulnerable populations

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

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