Once paroled from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, rebuilding a new life becomes a never ending request to show valid identification. Going to the DMV to try and get identification, immediately makes you suspect of being a terrorist who is attempting to “hide out” until called upon to blow up something. Assembly Bill 2099 may change all of that, providing everyone who is walking out the door with a valid ID.
Frank Russell, director of education, vocations and offender programs in CDCR, acknowledges that there is a serious gap in the parole process here. He stated that the most critical time of release, is in the first hours and days following release. Getting a job, applying for assistance, and the hundred other daily events people deal with, all begin with an ID.
Assemblywoman Loni Hancock argues that identification is the “sensible” thing to do and removes obstacles in the way of parolees. A test program has been proposed for Folsom State Prison, at a cost of $55,000. Ms. Hancock points out that if it helps two inmates to stay out, then the state will have saved $71,000.