What does Preamble of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

This bill establishes a grant program to assist states. The program aims to help states provide identification cards compliant with federal standards. The cards would be provided at no cost to low-income individuals.

What does SHORT TITLE. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

This bill is formally titled the 'SAVE America Through REAL ID Act'.

What does PURPOSE. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

This Act aims to ensure eligible individuals have access to identification documents meeting federal election standards. The Act supports state efforts to remove financial obstacles to obtaining these identification documents. The Act's purpose is to provide access regardless of income.

What does DEFINITIONS. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

This section defines key terms used within the Act. A 'low-income individual' is defined as someone whose household income is not more than 200 percent of the Federal poverty level, or who participates in a means-tested public assistance program, as determined by the State. A 'REAL ID-compliant identification' is a driver's license or identification card issued by a State that meets federal requirements. The 'Secretary' refers to the Secretary of Homeland Security. The term 'State' includes the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and any territory or possession of the United States.

What does GRANT PROGRAM ESTABLISHED. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

The Secretary is required to establish a grant program. The program provides funds to States to cover costs associated with issuing REAL ID-compliant identification to low-income individuals at no cost to them. States receiving grants can waive application and issuance fees for eligible individuals. Funds can be used to cover administrative costs related to processing applications. States can conduct public awareness activities related to REAL ID eligibility and application procedures. Grants can support providing mobile or remote services for obtaining REAL IDs in underserved areas. Funds may be used to assist applicants in obtaining required documentation.

What does STATE APPLICATIONS. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

To receive a grant under this Act, states must submit an application to the Secretary. The Secretary determines the timing, format, and required information for state applications. Applications must describe how states will identify and verify eligible individuals. Applications must include a plan to eliminate fees for eligible individuals. Applications must detail outreach strategies to increase awareness. Applications must provide assurances of compliance with privacy and security laws.

What does ALLOCATION OF FUNDS. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

This section outlines the allocation of funds to states. The Secretary is responsible for allocating funds based on the population of low-income individuals in each state. Allocation is also based on the demonstrated need for increased access to compliant identification. Each state receiving a grant will receive a minimum allocation, as determined by the Secretary.

What does REPORTING AND ACCOUNTABILITY. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

States receiving funds are required to submit annual reports to the Secretary. These state reports must detail the number of free identification cards issued, demographic data (as permitted by law), outreach activities, and expenditures of grant funds. The Secretary is required to submit an annual report to Congress summarizing program outcomes and effectiveness. Funds provided under this Act are subject to audit by Federal oversight entities.

What does AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

This section authorizes appropriations to carry out the Act. A total of $50,000,000 is authorized for each fiscal year from 2027 through 2031.

What does RULEMAKING. of SAVE America Through REAL ID Act do?

This section grants the Secretary the authority to create regulations. These regulations are intended to implement the provisions of this Act.

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SAVE America Through REAL ID Act

Last updated: 6/4/2026 · Introduced: 6/4/2026

Author: Julie Fedorchak (R-ND)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill establishes a grant program administered by the Department of Homeland Security to help states provide free REAL ID-compliant identification cards to low-income individuals.
States applying for grants must demonstrate how they will identify and verify eligible individuals, eliminate associated fees, and conduct outreach to increase awareness of REAL ID eligibility.
The bill authorizes $50 million annually from 2027 through 2031 to fund the grant program and requires states to report on the number of free cards issued and program expenditures.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 8 more.

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